Thoothukudi Firecracker Factory Blast Kills Worker, 26 Injured

Thoothukudi, June 22: One worker was killed, and 26 others were injured after an explosion ripped through a firecracker manufacturing unit near Ettayapuram in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district on Saturday.

The blast took place at Balaji Fire Works in Ayan Rajapatti when workers were reportedly engaged in regular manufacturing activities inside the factory. Police said the deceased has been identified as Mariammal, a resident of Nathathupatti, who was employed at the unit.

Three Workers Reported Critical

According to officials, 26 workers sustained injuries in the explosion. Three of them are said to be in critical condition. The injured workers were shifted to the Government Hospital in Sattur for treatment.

Emergency teams rushed to the spot soon after the incident, while local police and fire officials began rescue and safety operations at the damaged factory premises.

Factory Rooms Badly Damaged

The impact of the blast caused major structural damage inside the firecracker unit. Officials said two rooms were partially damaged and were at risk of collapse, while three rooms were completely damaged.

Fire and Rescue Services personnel from Kovilpatti and Vilathikulam reached the site and carried out rescue operations. Authorities also searched through the debris to check whether any workers were trapped inside the damaged structures.

Cause Of Blast Yet To Be Confirmed

Officials said further details on what triggered the explosion are still awaited. Police are expected to examine whether safety procedures were followed at the manufacturing unit and whether chemical handling or storage conditions played any role in the incident.

The Thoothukudi blast has once again brought attention to safety concerns at firecracker manufacturing units in Tamil Nadu, where workers often handle highly sensitive materials during production.

Authorities are likely to continue inspection and investigation work before confirming the exact cause of the explosion.