Alwar, February 16, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran) — Seven people were killed after a massive fire broke out in a closed factory following loud explosions in the Khushkhera industrial area of Rajasthan’s Alwar district on Monday.
According to officials, the incident occurred at Plot No. G-1, 118 in the industrial area. The factory had reportedly been shut for several months, and a large stock of cardboard was stored inside the premises.
Fire Officer Raju Khan said smoke was first noticed rising from the factory around 10 am. Within a short time, the fire spread rapidly and took a severe form. Eyewitnesses reported hearing three to four loud explosions during the blaze, causing panic in the area. The sound of the blasts was heard from a considerable distance.
Initial suspicion suggests that gas cylinders kept inside the factory may have exploded, leading to the blasts. However, the exact cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed.
As the fire broke out, workers and staff from nearby factories rushed out of their workplaces. Around half a dozen fire tenders were pressed into service. Firefighters faced difficulty in controlling the blaze as the cardboard stored inside caught fire quickly. After several hours of effort, the fire was largely brought under control, though cooling operations continued for a long time.
As a precautionary measure, nearby factories were evacuated and power supply in the area was temporarily suspended to prevent further damage. Police and administrative officials reached the spot and monitored the situation.
Alwar Superintendent of Police Prashant Kiran confirmed that seven people lost their lives in the incident. Additional District Magistrate Sumita Mishra said the police team noticed the fire during routine patrolling, following which rescue operations were launched. She added that nine people were trapped inside the factory, and seven bodies have been recovered so far.
Police have begun an investigation to determine whether the fire was caused by a short circuit or any other reason. Authorities have also directed other industrial units in the area to review their safety standards. The extent of the financial loss is being assessed, with preliminary estimates indicating damage worth several lakh rupees.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.