VIRUDHUNAGAR: At least 21 people were killed and six others injured on Sunday after a powerful explosion ripped through a firecracker factory in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, according to state-run broadcaster All India Radio (AIR).
The blast occurred in the afternoon at the factory located in V. Muthulingapuram, in the Virudhunagar district. “In Tamil Nadu, 21 people are reported to have been killed following a blast at a firecracker factory… this afternoon,” AIR reported. “Six people have been seriously injured and rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.”
According to the broadcaster, the explosion happened while laborers were moving inflammable chemical materials inside the factory. Reports indicated that approximately 50 workers were present across four rooms at the time of the blast.
Officials fear the death toll could rise further, as several of the injured remain in critical condition. The explosion completely destroyed the facility, authorities said.
The exact cause of the accident is under investigation. Accidental explosions are common at firecracker factories and shops across India, where owners often disregard safety standards.
