Onion Bomb Blast in Andhra Pradesh: What's the Deadlier Firecracker Behind the Bang?
A tragic incident involving an onion bomb in Azuru district in Andhra Pradesh claimed one life and injured six more as a person who was transporting a sack of onion bombs on his scooter lost control of the vehicle, causing it to fall, and the explosives were detonated. This tragic incident has brought much concern over the dangers of onion bombs and why such high-risk items remain available.
What is an onion bomb, and why does it pose so much danger?
This is an onion bomb, a firework designed to bang loudly and give out an intense flash. It is called so because of its round shape and several layers of constructions that resemble an onion. The loud bang, the bright flash, and the smoke given during explosion make it a great firework for ceremonies or celebrations. But because of its powerful explosion and how it can cause sparks, this firework also resembles a very improvised explosive device.
బైక్పై తీసుకెళ్తుండగా పేలిన ఉల్లిగడ్డ బాంబులు.. ఓ మహిళ మృతి
— Telugu Scribe (@TeluguScribe) October 31, 2024
ఏలూరు తూర్పువీధి గౌరమ్మ గుడి వద్ద ఓ బైక్పై ఉల్లిగడ్డ బాంబులు తీసుకెళుతుండగా.. బైక్ గోతిలో పడి బాంబులు పేలాయి.
ఈ ప్రమాదంలో మహిళ మృతి చెందగా.. మరి కొందరికి గాయాలయ్యాయి. pic.twitter.com/tZBMIrtNzb
The force of an onion bomb's explosion can cause severe harm depending on a person's proximity to the blast. Therefore, they are sometimes called miniature dynamite for their capacity to cause great damage. Although they are commonly used in commercial displays, onion bombs are generally not meant for public sale. In many countries, like the UK, such fireworks are restricted to professional displays, not allowing the public to view these fireworks too often and minimize the risks.
Fireworks blast in Azuru was so strong that it destroyed a vehicle and injured some bystanders critically. Such an incidence brings into light the need for better rules and regulations on fireworks.
Firecracker Explosions and Recent Accidents
India has had several recent incidents of illegal or improperly managed firework production and usage, which is raising a question over the safety of firecrackers. An illegal firecracker factory in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, exploded in October, killing two people and injuring three. In September, four were killed and six wounded when an explosion blew up a building, burying several people under rubble in Firozabad's Naushera. And in July, an explosion in Sivakasi in the state of Tamil Nadu, known as India's firecracker capital, resulted in two fatalities and two injuries. These accidents show the dangers in handling explosive devices, more so in unregulated circumstances.
Prevention of Onion Bomb Dangers
The incidents point to the critical need for increased regulation, proper education on safe use, and strict control over firecracker distribution. More stringent safety measures and compliance with existing laws can be enforced to prevent such tragedies from happening.
Also read: Diwali Tragedy in Kakinada: Festive Feud Turns Fatal, Three Family Members Killed in Andhra Pradesh
