Proposal to Amend Explosives Rules, 2008 to Be Submitted to Centre

Focus on Automation to Prevent Loss of Life; Draft Recommendations Presented Before Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis

Nagpur, June 2026: In view of the fatal accidents reported in explosive manufacturing companies in Nagpur district over the past two-and-a-half years, the Maharashtra government is set to submit a proposal to the Central Government recommending amendments to the Explosives Rules, 2008. The proposed changes aim to enhance safety standards and minimize the risk of loss of life by encouraging greater automation and the adoption of globally accepted safety practices.

A draft of the proposal was presented before Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at Ramgiri on Sunday by a study group led by Nagpur District Superintendent of Police Harsh Poddar. The study group included experts from the National Fire Service College as well as representatives from companies engaged in the manufacture of explosives.

The draft contains several recommendations aimed at improving safety in the explosives industry. One of the key suggestions is the extensive automation of manufacturing processes to reduce operational risks. The study group has recommended the use of robotics and advanced automated systems in hazardous operations, thereby reducing the need for direct human involvement in high-risk areas.

Another major recommendation is to ensure that the minimum possible manpower is present in locations where dangerous processes are carried out. The proposal also advocates the adoption of internationally recognized safety standards and best practices to strengthen workplace safety and reduce the likelihood of accidents.

Based on these recommendations, amendments to the Explosives Rules, 2008 are expected to be proposed and forwarded to the Central Government for consideration.

Chief Minister Fadnavis had earlier taken serious note of a series of accidents in explosive manufacturing units in Nagpur district and had indicated the need for reviewing and strengthening the existing regulatory framework governing the explosives sector. He had subsequently directed Superintendent of Police Harsh Poddar to conduct a detailed study and formulate recommendations for improving safety standards.

Following these instructions, the study group held consultations with various stakeholders, including industry representatives, safety experts, and technical professionals. After extensive discussions and analysis, the group prepared a draft outlining the proposed regulatory changes and safety measures.

The presentation before the Chief Minister highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to industrial safety, particularly in sectors involving hazardous materials. The recommendations emphasize that technological interventions, including automation and robotics, can significantly reduce human exposure to dangerous processes and help prevent workplace fatalities.

The study group also stressed that aligning domestic regulations with international safety benchmarks would help improve risk management practices and create a safer working environment for employees engaged in explosives manufacturing.

The presentation was delivered by Superintendent of Police Harsh Poddar in the presence of National Fire Service College Director A.R. Sonatakke, Assistant Director Gagan Upadhyay, and representatives of various explosives manufacturing companies.

Officials said the proposed amendments reflect the state government’s commitment to enhancing industrial safety and preventing future accidents. If approved by the Centre, the changes could lead to a significant modernization of safety regulations governing the explosives industry, with a stronger emphasis on technology-driven processes and international best practices.

The initiative is expected to contribute to safer workplaces, improved regulatory oversight, and better protection for workers employed in one of the country’s most sensitive industrial sectors.