Tragic Blaze at Russian Factory Claims 11 Lives and Leaves 130 Injured
Ryazan Region Declares Day of Mourning
Official Announcement
On Monday, officials in the Ryazan region announced a formal day of mourning, marking a period of reflection and tribute for those affected by recent events.
Key Points of the Declaration
- Government Body: The regional authorities, led by the governor, issued the statement.
- Date: The mourning day is scheduled to begin on Monday.
- Purpose: It serves to honor the memory of victims and support communal grieving.
- Rituals: Local councils plan to organize memorial ceremonies and community vigils.
Public Response
Residents across the region have expressed empathy and solidarity, with many attending planned services and displaying symbolic signs of remembrance.
Industrial Plant Fire in Ryazan Region Kills 11, Injures 130
On Friday, a devastating blaze at the Elastik facility in the Shilovsky District of Russia’s Ryazan region resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals and left 130 people wounded, officials reported on Saturday. The accident occurred approximately 250 kilometres southeast of Moscow.
Response and Recovery Efforts
- The fire first erupted in a gunpowder workshop, generating a powerful explosion that accelerated the tragedy.
- Emergency crews pursued debris throughout the weekend; two further bodies were retrieved during the night, as stated by the Russian Emergencies Ministry.
- As of Saturday, 29 victims remained hospitalized—13 in Ryazan and 16 transferred to medical centres in Moscow.
- Three survivors were extricated from the wreckage overnight while investigators began a preliminary investigation.
Mourning and Public Affairs
Local authorities announced a day of mourning for the Ryazan region on Monday. Governor Pavel Malkov noted that flags would be lowered across the area and that cultural, media, and other organisations were requested to cancel entertainment events.
Historical Context
This incident marks the second fatal explosion at the Elastik plant within a span of less than four years. The most recent previous disaster occurred in October 2021, when a blast led to 17 fatalities at a workshop operated by explosives producer Razryad.
