At Least 25 Killed in Firecracker Factory Explosion in India
Dozens feared dead as illegal operations and safety concerns come under scrutiny
- Explosion at firecracker factory kills at least 25 people in Tamil Nadu
- Second blast during rescue operations injures more workers
- Authorities investigate safety violations as factory owner goes into hiding
At least 25 people have died following a devastating explosion at a firecracker factory in Tamil Nadu, southern India, with several others injured.
The incident occurred on Sunday evening at the Vanaja Fireworks Industry in Virudhunagar. Authorities say about 50 workers were inside the premises at the time, despite the factory officially being closed.
According to officials, four people sustained serious injuries in the initial blast. A second explosion occurred during rescue efforts, leaving 13 additional people injured, though their conditions were not reported as critical.
The cause of the explosion remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing.
An injured eyewitness told BBC Tamil that around 25 workers were in the veranda area when the fire broke out. The explosion destroyed at least three rooms and reduced parts of the building to rubble.
Rescue operations were hampered by repeated bursts of firecrackers igniting within the factory, making it difficult for emergency teams to access affected areas. The operation has since been completed.
Police have filed a case against the factory owner and foreman, both of whom are currently on the run. Four special teams have been deployed to track them down.
Efforts to identify the victims are continuing. Officials have confirmed that 22 of the 25 deceased have been identified so far, with most of them reported to be women. Some bodies were severely burnt, complicating identification.
Fireworks factory accidents are a recurring issue in India, where the industry supplies explosives for festivals, weddings, and other celebrations, often raising concerns about safety compliance.
District authorities have already pointed to possible violations. The District Collector, NO Sukhaputra, noted that the factory should not have been operational on a Sunday, describing this as a clear breach of regulations. While the facility reportedly held a valid licence, further checks are underway.
Reacting to the tragedy, Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
