At least 13 people have been killed in an explosion at a firecracker factory in India's southern state of Kerala, officials report. The tragic incident occurred in Thrissur, where approximately 40 individuals were assembling firecrackers ahead of an upcoming festival. Multiple injuries were reported, with five people in critical condition.
This incident marks the second such tragedy within the week, following a blast at a firecracker factory in Tamil Nadu that left at least 25 people dead. Accidental explosions have become a grim routine in India's fireworks industry, particularly in regions like Sivakasi, renowned for producing a significant portion of the country's firework supply.
The explosion in Thrissur happened around 15:30 local time, triggering secondary blasts that hampered rescue efforts, and its force was felt several kilometers away, causing damage to surrounding homes.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as locals rushed to help pull out the injured and deceased. Kerala's Revenue Minister K Rajan stated that all fireworks units were operating under approved permissions, but details on how many workers were present at the time of the explosion remain unclear.
Emergency teams faced difficulties accessing the area due to poor road infrastructure, exacerbating the situation. Investigators are looking into various factors, including extreme heat as a potential trigger for the explosion.
In response to these events, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced financial assistance for the victims' families and those injured in the blast, while a magisterial inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the causes and responsibilities surrounding this horrific event.
