Sattur, Sept 5:
A worker was killed in an explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit at Othayal village near Sattur in Virudhunagar district on Saturday, triggering panic in the area and prompting fire and rescue teams to rush to the spot.
The blast occurred at the Chinnathambi Fireworks unit, where workers were engaged in routine manufacturing activities. The explosion was followed by a series of blasts, making it difficult for fire and rescue personnel to immediately enter the affected area.
The deceased worker has been identified as Madasamy. His body was recovered from the site after the explosion. Fire and Rescue Services personnel were deployed to bring the situation under control and prevent the fire from spreading to other parts of the factory.
Officials faced difficulties in carrying out rescue operations as explosions continued intermittently at the unit. The presence of fireworks and explosive materials forced rescuers to exercise caution while approaching the affected sections of the factory.
The exact cause of the explosion is yet to be established. Police and other authorities are expected to examine the circumstances leading to the accident, including the manufacturing process, handling of chemicals and compliance with prescribed safety regulations.
The incident comes just two days after separate explosions at two licensed firecracker units in Virudhunagar district claimed three workers’ lives. The accidents occurred at units near Srivilliputhur and Sivakasi, with chemical mishandling and friction suspected to have triggered the blasts.
The repeated accidents have once again raised concerns over safety standards in Tamil Nadu’s firecracker industry, particularly in Virudhunagar district, which is a major hub for fireworks manufacturing. Authorities are expected to intensify inspections of units and verify adherence to safety norms in the wake of the latest incident.
The latest fatality has also renewed concerns among workers and their families about workplace safety as the industry enters a crucial period ahead of the Deepavali season.