PRAYAGRAJ, Aug. 31 -- A massive explosion at an alleged illegal firecracker factory in Kaushambi district on Monday left at least five people dead, including two children, and injured more than 20 others. The powerful blast completely razed the factory building and damaged several nearby houses, triggering panic across the area.

Among the deceased are Pravin (13), Priyanshi (5), Pranjali (5), Tanu (17) and Ranesh (45) who succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment at SRN Hospital in Prayagraj. Both children had been admitted in critical condition. Hospital sources said that the condition of several injured persons remains serious, with multiple victims being treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

Chief minister Yogi Adityanath ...