PM Narendra Modi announces an ex-gratia relief of Rs 2 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives in the GAIL pipeline accident. A compensation of Rs 50,000 has been announced for the severely injured.

The relief announced by the PM is in addition to the relief assistance given by the Petroleum Ministry and GAIL. The PM said he has spoken to the Petroleum Minister, the Cabinet Secretary and the GAIL chairman and asked them to ensure immediate relief at the accident site.

"My thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives in the GAIL Pipeline fire in AP. My prayers are with the injured," said the PM.

A major blast occurred at a Gas Authority of India Limited site at Nagaram village in Andhra Pradeshs East Godavari district on Friday early morning. The toll from the blast has increased from 8 to 14 people, while another 30 are injured.

Fire officials, who reached the spot to douse the fire which occurred owing to the blast, have been able to control the flames, which had risen to at least 250 metres in height, burning the trees in the area.