Six 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 has directed that all government facilities required should be made available for the rescue operations and for treating the injured.
