Sivakasi: At least three people were killed and several others were injured after a powerful explosion ripped through an illegally operated firecracker godown near Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu’s Virudhunagar district on Sunday, triggering a massive fire and multiple secondary explosions.

The blast occurred at Sengamalpatti village in Sivakasi taluk, where workers were reportedly engaged in manufacturing firecrackers inside an unauthorised storage and production facility. The explosion caused extensive damage to the structure and sent thick plumes of black smoke into the sky, creating panic among nearby residents.

Rescue Teams Recover Third Body

Personnel from the Fire and Rescue Services and local police rushed to the spot and launched firefighting and rescue operations. After several hours, the blaze was brought under control, allowing rescue teams to search the debris.

Police initially confirmed two deaths, but firefighters later recovered the body of a third victim from the rubble, taking the death toll to three.

The injured were shifted to Sivakasi Government Hospital, where they are undergoing treatment. Officials said the condition of some of the injured is being closely monitored.

Police Probe Safety Violations and Illegal Operations

Police have registered a case and begun a detailed investigation into the incident.

Preliminary inquiries indicate that the firecracker godown was operating without the required authorisation. Investigators are examining whether violations of safety norms, improper storage of explosive materials or unauthorised manufacturing practices led to the explosion.

Fresh Safety Concerns in Sivakasi’s Firecracker Industry

The incident comes just days after Tamil Nadu Industries Minister S. Keerthana held a meeting with fireworks manufacturers and traders in Sivakasi to discuss measures aimed at improving the industry’s competitiveness while ensuring better regulatory compliance.

Sivakasi, known as India’s firecracker manufacturing hub, has witnessed several fatal explosions over the years in both licensed and unlicensed units.

Previous investigations into similar incidents have repeatedly pointed to overcrowded workspaces, illegal storage of explosives, unauthorised manufacturing and failure to follow mandatory safety protocols.

Despite repeated interventions by the Madras High Court and the issuance of strict safety guidelines for the fireworks industry, fatal accidents continue to raise concerns over enforcement and regulatory oversight in the sector.