At least 13 people have been killed in an explosion at a firecracker factory in India's southern state of Kerala, officials say. The incident occurred in Thrissur, where around 40 people were believed to be assembling firecrackers in a cluster of sheds for an upcoming festival. Several others were injured, with five reported to be in critical condition. This marks the second such incident this week; a blast at a firecracker factory in neighboring Tamil Nadu on Sunday left at least 25 dead.
Accidental explosions are common in India's fireworks industry, often leading to tragic outcomes. Investigations into the Thrissur explosion revealed that it occurred while firecrackers were being manufactured in temporary sheds with poor access, hampering emergency response efforts. The explosion's force was felt kilometers away, startling residents who mistook it for an earthquake and causing damage to nearby homes.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic with locals rushing to assist the injured and deceased. Kerala's Revenue Minister, K Rajan, confirmed that all fireworks units involved had permission for their operations. The workers were preparing for the Thrissur Pooram, a major annual Hindu temple festival famed for its elaborate fireworks displays.
While officials suspect that high temperatures played a role in the explosion, an investigation will clarify the incident's cause. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced financial assistance for the victims' families, pledging support amidst growing concerns regarding safety practices in the fireworks industry, particularly around festival times.
Accidental explosions are common in India's fireworks industry, often leading to tragic outcomes. Investigations into the Thrissur explosion revealed that it occurred while firecrackers were being manufactured in temporary sheds with poor access, hampering emergency response efforts. The explosion's force was felt kilometers away, startling residents who mistook it for an earthquake and causing damage to nearby homes.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic with locals rushing to assist the injured and deceased. Kerala's Revenue Minister, K Rajan, confirmed that all fireworks units involved had permission for their operations. The workers were preparing for the Thrissur Pooram, a major annual Hindu temple festival famed for its elaborate fireworks displays.
While officials suspect that high temperatures played a role in the explosion, an investigation will clarify the incident's cause. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced financial assistance for the victims' families, pledging support amidst growing concerns regarding safety practices in the fireworks industry, particularly around festival times.
