Incident Details
A powerful explosion hit a firecracker making unit in Thrissur, Kerala, in southern India. Thirteen workers lost their lives in the blast. Around forty workers were inside a cluster of sheds preparing fireworks for an upcoming Hindu festival.
The explosion was so strong that people living several kilometers away felt it. Some residents thought it was an earthquake. Nearby homes also suffered damage due to the blast.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
Emergency teams and local residents rushed to the site right after the explosion. They helped pull injured workers and bodies from the damaged sheds.
Several people were injured in the incident. Officials confirmed that five of them are in critical condition and receiving treatment in hospitals.
Link to Thrissur Pooram Festival
The workers were preparing fireworks for the Thiruvambady Temple, one of the main participants in Thrissur Pooram. This is a major annual temple festival in Kerala known for its large fireworks displays.
Safety Concerns and Past Incidents
Firecracker factories in India have faced repeated safety issues over the years. Similar accidents have occurred in nearby regions, including Tamil Nadu, where a recent explosion killed many people.
Cause Still Under Investigation
Officials have not confirmed the exact cause of the explosion. Some local authorities suggested that high temperatures may have contributed to the blast. However, investigators say the cause is still unclear and under review.
