Thirteen people have been killed in an explosion at a firecracker manufacturing centre in Mundathikode in Kerala’s Thrissur district, where preparations were on for Thrissur Pooram's Thiruvambady segment's fireworks display.
Nearly 40 others sustained injuries in the incident. The condition of six people is reported to be critical. The injured have been admitted to Thrissur Medical College Hospital.
Witnesses say the loud explosion was heard from kilometres away.
Rescue operations were tough initially as the fire force found it difficult to reach the spot, as the road leading to the fireworks manufacturing centre was narrow. The fire force reached the location by breaking down a nearby compound wall.
According to a Malayala Manorama report, a tense situation prevails in the area as firecrackers were scattered and exploding all over the adjacent paddy field.
Those who sustained burns include Satheesan, who is in-charge of the fireworks.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan directed that all government machinery be fully mobilised to ensure every possible medical assistance.
The CM also held discussions with the Chief Secretary to review the situation and coordinate the response.
He said that, if required, the services of specialist doctors from hospitals outside the state would be utilised to ensure expert treatment for those suffering from burn injuries.
All necessary measures for rescue operations are currently underway, with a dedicated monitoring system put in place to track developments in real time, the CM said.
Coordinated efforts are being carried out by the Police, Fire and Rescue Services, the Health Department, as well as the Revenue and Disaster Management departments.
The CM also expressed his condolences over the loss of lives in the incident.
Eyewitnesses recount the horror
Eyewitnesses said the sound of the massive explosion was heard several kilometres away.
Residents said the blast felt like an earthquake.
Windows, doors and even vehicles shook due to the impact.
Locals believe the explosion may have been triggered by intense heat.
“I had come to a nearby farmland. I arrived in a vehicle. Right after the explosion, the vehicle shook violently. I was about to get out when it happened. The vehicle was really shaking. You can imagine how terrifying it is when even a Fortuner shakes like that,” Malayala Manorama quoted an eyewitness as saying.
