Orissa, Oct. 5 -- Two people, including a woman, were injured on Sunday in a massive explosion at an illegal firecracker manufacturing unit in Bachhuripada village, under Baisinga Police Station in Mayurbhanj district.

According to sources, the explosion occurred around 11 am while the victims were allegedly preparing illegal fireworks and explosives. Eyewitnesses said the blast was so powerful that it blew off the asbestos roof and walls of the unit.

Both injured individuals were immediately shifted to the nearest hospital, with the male victim reported to be in critical condition, sources added.

The village is known for the year-round manufacture of illegal firecrackers, and despite frequent police raids and seizures, authorities ha...