Sivakasi: A devastating explosion ripped through a private firecracker factory in Chinna Kamanpatti village near Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu’s Virudhunagar district early this morning, leaving at least five workers dead and several others feared injured. The blast, which occurred during working hours, sent shockwaves through the surrounding area, with flames and thick plumes of smoke engulfing the site.
According to eyewitnesses, the workers inside the factory had little time to react as the explosion triggered a series of subsequent blasts, making escape difficult. Local residents immediately alerted the fire department, which rushed to the scene with multiple teams to battle the raging inferno. Firefighters are still working tirelessly to bring the flames under control, but intermittent explosions from leftover firecrackers have hampered rescue efforts.
Police and Authorities Launch Investigation
The police have registered a case and initiated a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion. Preliminary reports suggest possible safety violations, but officials have stated that the exact cause will only be confirmed after a detailed inquiry. District authorities, along with forensic experts, have visited the site to gather evidence.
Injured Rushed to Hospitals, Locals in Mourning
Ambulances swiftly transported the injured to nearby hospitals, where they are undergoing emergency treatment. The condition of some remains critical, raising fears that the death toll could rise. Meanwhile, grief has gripped Chinna Kamanpatti and neighboring villages, as the victims were mostly local laborers dependent on the factory for their livelihood.
A History of Firecracker Mishaps in Sivakasi
Sivakasi, known as the firecracker manufacturing hub of India, has witnessed several such tragedies in the past due to lax safety measures in small-scale factories. This latest incident has once again raised concerns over inadequate enforcement of industrial safety regulations.
As the firefighting operation continues, authorities have urged people to avoid the area due to the risk of further explosions. The state government is expected to announce compensation for the victims’ families, while calls for stricter factory inspections grow louder.
Updates to follow as the situation develops.