Bhubaneswar, January 18: A deadly explosion rocked an illegal firecracker manufacturing unit in Khalarda village, Cuttack, on Sunday, killing one worker. The blast, which occurred inside a house, was so powerful that it destroyed the roof, leaving the structure severely damaged.

Locals reported hearing the loud explosion, sparking panic in the area. Police and fire services swiftly responded to the scene, initiating rescue operations. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the explosion and whether safety regulations were violated.

The incident follows a similar blast in Rayagada on January 15, where firecrackers being prepared at a private home also exploded, injuring several people. Some victims were transferred to Visakhapatnam for further treatment.