At least 13 people were killed and around 40 others injured in a devastating fire and a series of explosions at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Mundathikode on Tuesday, making it one of the deadliest industrial accidents reported in the region in recent years.
The incident comes just two days after a similar tragedy in Virudhunagar, where 25 people lost their lives in a fireworks unit explosion, underscoring persistent safety concerns in the sector.
The unit in Mundathikode, spread across a five-acre paddy field, had been engaged in preparing fireworks for Thiruvambady Devaswom—one of the key organisers of the renowned Thrissur Pooram. The materials included supplies intended for a sample fireworks display scheduled for April 24.
Explosion and Devastation
The blast occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m., triggering a massive fire that rapidly engulfed the facility. Of the eight operational sheds on the premises, five were completely destroyed, including three that stored large quantities of explosive materials.
The force of the explosions was severe, blowing apart entire structures and hurling debris and stones across adjacent fields. The scene was described as catastrophic, with human remains scattered over a wide area.
Casualties and Medical Response
According to officials at Thrissur Government Medical College, at least five of the injured are in critical condition. One victim has sustained over 90% burn injuries, while four others are battling burns covering approximately 70% of their bodies. Several others are receiving treatment at hospitals across the district.
The explosion, reportedly heard several kilometres away, initially triggered panic among local residents, many of whom mistook it for an ഭൂകമ്പം due to the intensity of the shockwave. Thick plumes of smoke blanketed the area, while the fire spread to nearby vegetation.
Rescue Challenges and Ongoing Risks
Rescue operations have been significantly hampered by intermittent secondary explosions and the presence of unexploded materials. A subsequent blast during initial rescue efforts forced teams to temporarily withdraw and reassess the situation.
Personnel from the Fire and Rescue Services faced access constraints due to narrow approach roads and were compelled to breach a compound wall to reach the site. Given the continuing risk, Nitin Agarwal confirmed that drones were deployed, with police support, to assess the extent of damage and assist in locating victims, as firefighters were unable to safely approach the epicentre.
Investigation Ordered
The unit was operating under a licence issued in the name of Mundathikode Satheesh, who is reported to have sustained serious burn injuries in the incident. The exact number of workers present at the time remains unclear.
Sikha Surendran has ordered a detailed magisterial inquiry into the incident. The probe has been assigned to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate and the Thrissur Revenue Divisional Officer, who will examine the cause of the explosion, compliance with safety norms, and the circumstances leading to the tragedy.
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