Lives lost in Rayavaram fire: CPM seeks justice, compensation
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
Rayavaram – Andhra Pradesh: CPM leaders termed the fire accident at Sri Ganapathi Fire Works in Rayavaram village of Dr. B R Ambedkar Konaseema district as tragic and demanded compensation of Rs 50 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs 5 lakh to the injured.
CPM team inspects accident site
A CPM team led by State Committee member Dadala Subbarao visited the site and reviewed the aftermath of Tuesday’s fire. Subbarao said around 50 workers were employed at the unit, but only 35 were present on the day of the accident. He observed that the number of casualties could have been much higher if the incident had not occurred during the lunch break.
Lack of safety measures blamed
Subbarao pointed out that there was no adequate water supply or fire safety arrangements at the fireworks unit. He said the absence of proper firefighting facilities worsened the situation, contributing to multiple fatalities. He urged the Revenue Department to investigate whether regular inspections were carried out and to take action against negligent officials if lapses were found.
No compensation announced yet
The CPM leader criticised the government’s inaction, noting that although State Home Minister Anita visited the accident site, no compensation had been announced for the victims. The party demanded immediate ex-gratia relief and better medical care for the injured.
Call for broader safety review
The CPM team found that several fireworks units were operating in the mandal and urged authorities to inspect all such sites to ensure compliance with safety standards. They requested the government to conduct a comprehensive review of safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies.
Those who joined the visit included District Convener Kaarem Venkateswara Rao, District Members G Durga Prasad, M Balaram, senior leader Kovvuru Satthireddy, and representatives of public associations including CITU Mandal Convener D Adilakshmi, Anganwadi leaders S Krishnakumari, M Kamala, Sri Satya, and Municipal Workers Union District Secretary K Narendra Kumar.
