A massive explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit near Kandili in Tirupattur district of Tamil Nadu has claimed at least 18 lives and left nine others seriously injured. The incident occurred at Kattanar Palli village in Virudhunagar region, triggering widespread panic and prompting an emergency response from authorities.
According to initial reports, the explosion took place inside a private firecracker production facility while workers were engaged in mixing chemical compounds used in manufacturing. The sudden ignition led to a series of powerful blasts, completely destroying more than 10 rooms within the unit. The intensity of the explosion was so severe that tremors were reportedly felt up to 10 kilometres away.
Following the incident, five fire tenders were rushed to the spot and firefighting operations were launched on a war footing to bring the blaze under control. Police and fire department officials cordoned off the area and initiated rescue operations. Several women workers are believed to be among those killed in the explosion.
The injured were immediately shifted to nearby government hospitals, including Tirupattur Government Hospital, for treatment. Medical officials indicated that the condition of some of the injured remains critical. The explosion also caused partial damage to nearby houses, with residents reporting that the blast sound was heard across a wide radius.
Authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the cause of the explosion. Preliminary findings suggest a possible chemical reaction during the manufacturing process, though the exact reason is yet to be confirmed. Officials are also expected to examine safety compliance measures at the facility as part of the ongoing inquiry.