THRISSUR: A catastrophic explosion at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Mundathikode has claimed the lives of 13 people. The facility was preparing pyrotechnics for the Thiruvambady faction for the upcoming Thrissur Pooram festival. The death toll rose this evening after rescue teams recovered two more bodies from the nearby paddy fields.
At least 23 others were injured in the blast and have been rushed to the Thrissur Government Medical College Hospital. Hospital sources indicate that several of the injured remain in critical condition.
The Incident
The blast occurred at approximately 3:30 PM today within a 2.5-acre compound housing five storage sheds (firework magazines). Approximately 40 workers were on-site when the explosion ripped through the facility, reducing the entire area to ashes within seconds.
The impact was so severe that dismembered body parts were found scattered hundreds of meters away. Local residents reported that the ground shook, with many initially mistaking the vibration for an earthquake.
Rescue Operations & Challenges
Emergency services, including the Fire and Rescue departments and local police, are currently at the scene. However, rescue efforts have been severely hampered by:
- Secondary Blasts: Unexploded materials, including Amittu and Kuzhiminnal, continue to ignite, making it dangerous for personnel to enter the core area.
- Intense Smoke: Thick plumes of smoke have reduced visibility, prompting authorities to deploy drones to locate victims.
- Cooling Operations: The City Police Commissioner stated that fire units are working to drench the remaining explosives to neutralize them and prevent further casualties.
The state health department has been put on high alert to provide the best possible medical care for the survivors. An investigation into the cause of the explosion—whether due to the extreme summer heat or safety lapses—is expected to follow.
