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Chennai
At least 16 people were killed after two explosions occurred at two different places in the Virudhunagar district of southern India state of Tamil Nadu.
The first fire accident took place at a firecracker factory in Sivakasi, in which seven people lost their lives. The second accident happened at a firework unit in Kammapatti village which left nine dead.
“Seven charred bodies were recovered from the sudden blast at the fireworks unit in Sivakasi and their identities are yet to be established,” a senior police official told PTI.
VIDEO | Several killed in blasts at two separate fireworks units at Sivakasi in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu. More details are awaited. pic.twitter.com/GEvLmapj3B
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 17, 2023
#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: An explosion took place at a firecracker manufacturing factory near Kammapatti village of Virudhunagar district: Fire and Rescue department pic.twitter.com/t4nyL2542w
— ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2023
The police expect the casualties to go up as more fire officials are being pressed into service to douse the flames.
It is currently unknown what caused the fire incident at both the factories.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin condoled the deaths and announced a compensation of Rs 300,000 ($3,600 approx.) for the families of the victims.
Sivakasi is considered to be a hub of firecrackers manufacturers in India. Approximately 70 per cent of the firecrackers and matches produced in India are from this region. The hot and dry climate of the city is conducive to the firecracker and matchbox-making industries.
However, the city has also been prone to many fire accidents at factories. Lack of supervision and safety measures in the units are considered to be the leading cause of fires and explosions.
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