India fireworks factory explosion injures dozens of people

"Eight people, including a child were burnt alive and 12 others suffered burn injuries this evening, in a blast triggered fire inside a firecrackers factory here," a police official posted in Balasore said. "Six bodies were found near the accident site, while two were declared dead when brought to Balasore district hospital."

A police officer said the number of casualties was likely to go up because people were feared trapped under the collapsed building. The area is nearly 195 kilometers south of Bhubaneshwar, the state capital.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the blast. Accidental explosions are common at Indian firework factories as owners often ignore safety standards.

India is currently celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights. Though the main festival would be celebrated on October 18th, people have started celebrations days in advance./.