A devastating explosion at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Mundathikode, Thrissur district, has claimed several lives and left many others injured, casting a shadow over preparations for the upcoming Thrissur Pooram festival.
The blast occurred on Tuesday afternoon at a unit where workers were preparing fireworks for the festival. What began as a routine day at work quickly turned into chaos as a powerful explosion tore through the facility. Witnesses said the initial blast was followed by a series of smaller explosions, making rescue efforts extremely difficult and dangerous.
At least 13 people have died in the incident, according to early reports, while dozens of others have been injured. Many of the injured workers suffered severe burn injuries and have been admitted to hospitals in Thrissur, including the medical college hospital. Several remain in critical condition.
People living nearby described the explosion as terrifying. Many said they heard a loud blast that shook their homes, followed by thick smoke rising from the unit. Some residents said it felt like an earthquake, prompting panic as they rushed outdoors while emergency sirens echoed through the area.
Fire and rescue teams, police, and disaster response units reached the spot soon after the incident. However, they initially struggled to enter the premises due to continuous explosions and intense fire. After hours of effort, the blaze was brought under partial control and the injured were shifted to hospitals.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, conveying condolences to the families of the deceased. He directed officials to ensure the best medical care for the injured and announced financial assistance for affected families. Opposition leaders also expressed grief and called for a detailed investigation into safety lapses.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences over the loss of lives. He announced an ex-gratia payment from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the families of those killed and the injured, as per official communication.
The fireworks unit was preparing materials for the Thrissur Pooram, one of Kerala’s most important temple festivals. The tragedy has once again raised serious concerns about safety standards in fireworks manufacturing units during peak festival seasons.
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