Explosion at fireworks factory in Tamil Nadu’s Cuddalore; 3 dead, 2 hurt

An explosion at a fireworks factory in Tamil Nadu’s Cudaalore resulted in three workers being charred to death. Two other people, who were purchasing crackers at the retail outlet attached to the unit, were seriously injured and have been hospitalised.

Three people were charred to death and two others were hurt after an explosion took place at a fireworks manufacturing unit on Thursday, June 23 in Tamil Nadu’s Cuddalore.

The incident took place in the M Puthur area in Cuddalore district at around 1 pm on Thursday, when workers were involved in the manufacturing of firecrackers. The manufacturing unit’s godown and retail outlet were also situated in the same place.

On the day of the incident, five people were designated to work inside the manufacturing unit. The three deceased were working inside, while two others had stepped out for lunch.

The explosion occurred at the same time when two people were at the retail outlet to purchase crackers. As a result, the three workers were charred to death and the two customers were badly hurt. The other two employees, who had gone for lunch, escaped the incident.

The three deceased were identified as R Sathiaraj (32) of Naduveerapattu, S Ambika(50), from Nellikuppam and Chithra (38), from Periya Karaikadu. Two others suffered serious injuries and were rushed to the Cuddalore Government Hospital.

The two were identified as Vaithilingam (37) of Vellakarai and Vasantha (52), from Nellikuppam. Vasantha, who has suffered 90 per cent burns, is said to be in critical condition.

The owner of the unit has been identified as M Vanitha of Periya Karaikadu. Thirupapuliyur Police registered a case under Sections 286, 338 and 304 of the IPC and also under sections of the Explosives Act.