- By Nidhi Giri
- Mon, 20 Apr 2026 12:03 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Tamil Nadu Factory Blast: 25 people were charred to death while several others sustained grievous injuries following a massive explosion at a private firecracker manufacturing unit in Tamil Nadu’s Virudhunagar on Sunday. The incident at the 'Vanaja' fireworks factory, raised concerns over safety rules and audits in the industry.
Multiple sheds were completely destroyed after the explosion. "We are investigating, friction during mixing of chemicals appears to be the reason. Six sheds have completely been blown away in the explosion,” a senior police officer told NDTV.
According to police officials and fire rescue officials, four workers are in critical condition and are undergoing treatment at the Virudhunagar Government Medical College Hospital. The death toll is expected to rise.
Security Lapse At Firecracker Factory
As per the NDTV report, findings suggest that safety regulations were violated on multiple levels at the facility. As per rules, only three to four workers were allowed to be present in a production room, however, around 20 employees were present together when the incident occurred.
The factory unit, instead of being constructed as separate rooms with adequate spacing, was merged like a connected warehouse. Apart from this, the unit only had two exit points, even though as per rules at least four emergency exits should be there. As per officials cited by NDTV, the unit was carrying out operations illegally as its licence was temporarily suspended.
Following the incident, Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. He also requested two ministers to monitor the rescue operations and investigations.