A powerful explosion at a firecracker factory in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has killed at least 11 people, eight of whom were children, according to local police. The youngest victim was just four years old. The injured have been taken to hospitals for treatment.

The blast destroyed several houses in the vicinity. Videos circulating on social media show the aftermath, with buildings reduced to rubble and survivors covered in dust and debris. Rescue teams, using excavators and other tools, are searching for survivors under the wreckage.

The cause of the explosion remains unclear. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on social media that local authorities have been directed to ensure proper treatment for the injured and to provide all possible assistance to affected families.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and promised compensation for the families of the deceased and for those injured.

India's firecracker industry employs hundreds of thousands of people and is a major global player in this sector. According to the International Labour Organisation, many factories are home-based, unsafe, and employ children.

This is the third blast at an Indian firecracker factory in August, with today's explosion causing the highest number of casualties.

Source: www.aljazeera.com