Image Credits - ABP Live ABP News
A tragic incident occurred in Tamil Nadu’s Virudhnagar district on Saturday evening, where at least 9 individuals lost their lives and 10 others sustained injuries due to a large explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit.
According to reports from news agency ANI, eight individuals lost their lives in the explosion at a firecracker factory in the Virudhnagar district, with ten others sustaining injuries. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation. However, PTI quoted a higher casualty count, stating that ten people, including four women, were killed in the incident.
Following the explosion, visuals depicted extensive damage to the entire infrastructure, with the blast causing the collapse of the entire firecracker industrial unit.
Initial reports suggest that the incident occurred approximately at 12:30 pm on Saturday within the chemical mixing room of the firecracker manufacturing unit located in the village.
Virudhunagar District Collector Jeyaseelan, addressing reporters, stated that the accident occurred around noon. Nine individuals have tragically lost their lives, and three remain in critical condition. The injured have been promptly admitted to Sivakasi Hospital. It’s important to note that the plant in question possesses a valid license. In response to this tragic incident, a thorough investigation led by the District Revenue Officer has been initiated. Additionally, they have deployed four teams comprising the police, fire department, labour welfare department, and revenue department to ensure continuous vigilance and preventive measures against such accidents.
#WATCH | Explosion occurs in a firecracker manufacturing unit in Tamil Nadu’s Virudhunagar; details awaited pic.twitter.com/cALcg6A9Ow
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2024
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, expressed his condolences for the loss of lives in the unfortunate incident at a firecracker factory in Virudhunagar district, Tamil Nadu. He also extended his wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured.
Shri Modi announced an ex-gratia relief from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) of Rs. 2 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 for those injured.
In a statement shared by the Prime Minister’s Office on X, Modi said, “It is with a heavy heart that I learnt about a mishap at a firecracker factory in Virudhunagar district. During this difficult time, my thoughts are with the loved ones of those who have tragically passed away. I wish a swift and full recovery for all who have been injured.
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM
