Forensic probe: Aluminium powder caused Gujarat godown explosion, 21 dead

Deesa

A forensic investigation has confirmed that aluminium powder, a key ingredient in firecrackers, caused the explosion that devastated a warehouse near Deesa town in Gujarat, killing 21 people. The blast, which occurred around 9:45 a.m. on Tuesday, also involved yellow dextrin powder, another substance used in firecracker production. Police are investigating whether firecrackers were being manufactured at the site.

The warehouse, located in an industrial area about 30 km from Banaskantha district headquarters, experienced such a powerful blast that body parts were scattered 200-300 meters away. Several workers and their family members were killed when heavy chunks of the roof collapsed on them.

Police have arrested warehouse owners Deepak and Khubchand Mohnani, charging them with culpable homicide not amounting to murder and violations of the Explosives Act. An FIR has been filed against them in Deesa.

The forensic report confirmed that aluminium powder caused the explosion, although it is a non-explosive material in its natural form and can be bought without a license. When ignited in a closed space, however, it can trigger a blast. Authorities are investigating whether firecrackers were being illegally produced in the warehouse, despite it only having a license for storage, which expired in December.

The investigation is ongoing, with a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and additional teams examining the Mohnanis’ financial transactions and communications. Further inquiries will explore the presence of oxidizers, critical materials for firecracker manufacturing.