A massive blast ripped through a firecracker factory in central India, leaving at least 11 people dead and more than 170 injured.

The explosion occurred at a facility in Madhya Pradesh State on Tuesday. Police are investigating the cause.

Footage taken at the site shows smoke billowing from blast debris. Rescue workers have been searching for people who might be trapped underneath.

Local media reports say the owner of the factory has been arrested on suspicion of operating without government approval.

There is a huge demand for firecrackers in India, where they are used to celebrate Hindu festivals and weddings.

But safe production remains a problem as there have been a series of fatal accidents. An explosion in October at a firecracker factory in the southern state of Tamil Nadu killed more than 10 people.