In a tragic incident, at least 13 people were killed in explosions at two firecracker manufacturing units in Tamil Nadu’s Virudhunagar district on Tuesday. The blasts occurred at factories located in Rangapalayam and Kichanayakanpatti villages, highlighting safety concerns in the firecrackers industry ahead of Diwali.
Massive Blast in Rangapalayam
According to police officials, the first deadly explosion took place at a firecracker factory near Rangapalayam village. The intensity of the blast was such that it charred seven bodies beyond recognition. The deceased are suspected to be workers at the manufacturing unit.
Rescue teams rushed to the site after the fire department was alerted about the accident. Three more injured victims rescued from the location succumbed to their burn injuries afterward. The identities of the deceased are yet to be ascertained by authorities.
VIDEO | Several killed in blasts at two separate fireworks units at Sivakasi in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu. More details are awaited. pic.twitter.com/GEvLmapj3B
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 17, 2023
Explosion in Kichanayakanpatti Claims One Life
In the second incident, an explosion ripped through a firecracker manufacturing unit located near Kammapatti village in Virudhunagar district.
A 35-year-old male worker identified as Vembu tragically lost his life in the Kichanayakanpatti blast. Two female workers sustained critical burn injuries and were admitted to the Srivilliputtur Government Hospital for urgent treatment.
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CM Stalin Announces Compensation
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed condolences for the deceased and announced a compensation of Rs 3 lakh for families of each victim. Those seriously injured will receive Rs 1 lakh as compensation from the state government.
Authorities have initiated an investigation into these tragic explosions to determine the exact causes and whether adequate safety norms were in place.
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Surge in Firecracker Production Ahead of Diwali
The firecracker manufacturing units where the explosions occurred were legally licensed, police noted. However, the tragic loss of lives has brought focus on safety practices and working conditions in the factories.
In the lead up to the Diwali festival, production in firecracker factories across Tamil Nadu has increased significantly. The need for rushing orders and meeting deadlines often compromises safety protocols, workers’ advocates have highlighted.
Over the past few months, multiple deadly blasts have occurred at firecracker units in the state, killing dozens of workers. In October, 10 people lost their lives in a blast at a cracker factory in Ariyalur district.
The Tamil Nadu government faces pressure to improve monitoring and enforce stricter safety standards in the firecracker industry to prevent loss of precious lives in the future. Tragic accidents just before the festival dampen the festive spirit across the state.
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