Factory blast: 13 killed, several injured as explosion rocks firecracker factory in Tamil Nadu
The fire has now been brought under control, while rescue operations are still ongoing.
PTC News Desk: At least 13 people were killed and six others injured in a blast at a firecracker manufacturing unit in Kattanarpatti village in Virudhunagar district. The fire has now been brought under control, while rescue operations are still ongoing.
The injured have been shifted to a nearby hospital, and visuals from the scene showed locals gathered anxiously as fire officials cleared debris.
Leaders including M. K. Stalin, Narendra Modi, and Droupadi Murmu expressed grief over the incident. The Prime Minister and the President described the tragedy as “deeply distressing” and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. The Chief Minister directed officials to provide all necessary help to the victims and asked ministers K.K.S.S.R. Ramachandran and Thangam Thennarasu to visit the site and oversee relief work.
Virudhunagar, known as a major hub for firecracker manufacturing, has witnessed several such accidents in recent years. On April 13, 2026, a major explosion occurred at the Excel fireworks factory in Madathupatti near Sattur. Earlier incidents in February and June 2024 also resulted in multiple deaths and injuries, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in the industry.