Ludhiana: A man was killed and a 13-year-old girl injured in a powerful explosion at an allegedly illegal firecracker manufacturing unit in Jodhan village on Tuesday evening.The deceased was identified as Kaif Shah, while the injured, Alisha, sustained head injuries and was admitted in hospital. Police said preliminary investigation indicated that firecrackers were being manufactured illegally at the site. Dakha DSP Varinder Singh Khosa, who supervised rescue operations, confirmed the death.The explosion damaged two buildings, including the structure where the unit was operating. Fire officials said they received information about the blast at 58.20pm near a govt school and rushed teams to the spot. Sources said 15 to 20 people were present in the unit at the time, though most escaped unhurt. Villagers joined rescue efforts and pulled out one injured person from the debris. Officials suspect large quantities of explosive material were stored inside the building. A probe is underway.
