Chimney explosion news: At least nine people were declared dead and several others got injured in an explosion at a brick kiln in Bihar's East Champaran district on Friday (December 23), said police. The incident happened at the brick kiln in the Ramgarhwa area in Motihari.
Among those killed was the owner of the brick kiln, Mohd Ishrar, police added. The toll could go up as some of the injured were in critical condition, officials said.
"The District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police (SP) have rushed to the spot. The rescue operation is also on," said a statement issued by the Bihar Police headquarters.
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Those injured were admitted to a nearby government hospital, a senior police officer said. Several fire tenders were working at the site, he said. Expressing sorrow over the deaths, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said may the almighty give strength to the affected families to bear the loss of lives.
Also, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed grief at the loss of lives following explosion at a brick kiln in Bihar's Motihari and announced ex-gratia compensation for the victims' families.
The PMO tweeted quoting Modi, "Pained by the loss of lives due to a mishap at a brick kiln in Motihari. Condolences to the bereaved families. Prayers with the injured. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000."
He directed officials to ensure that all injured persons get good treatment.
(With agencies inputs)
