TN: Fire erupts at firecracker factory in Virudhunagar; 11 dead
What's the story
At least 11 people were reportedly killed after a fire erupted at a firecracker factory in Tamil Nadu's Virudhunagar district on Friday. The incident occurred at a factory Achankulam near Sattur in Virudhunagar. Over 20 people are reported to have been injured in the blaze, which the police have said was an accident, and the death toll is likely to increase.
Casualties
11 dead; 22 injured in fire
According to The New Indian Express, 11 people were killed and 22 were grievously injured in the fire. Nine bodies were recovered in a charred condition from the site, while two others died at the Sattur Government Hospital, the report said. It was difficult to identify the bodies since they were totally charred, the police said according to TNIE.
Fire
Fire broke out while spraying crackers: Report
Sources told The Quint that while spraying crackers in a room at the factory, the subsequent friction led to a sudden explosion. The fire spread to adjoining rooms, causing firecrackers to explode, they added. The factory is licensed by the Central Petroleum and Explosives Control Department in Nagpur and has been making pansy crackers in more than 35 rooms.
Aftermath
Firefighters rushed to spot; 10 rooms destroyed
Firefighting vehicles were rushed to the spot to douse the flames. Reportedly, officials said that 10 rooms have been destroyed in the blast. "Around 50 laborers had been working in the unit when the accident took place," TNIE quoted District Fire Officer Ganesan as saying. Meanwhile, an investigation is underway to ascertain the exact cause of the fire.
Ex-gratia
State, Centre announce ex-gratia for kin of deceased
Expressing grief over the fatalities due to the fire, TN Chief Minister E Palaniswami announced Rs. 3 lakh ex-gratia to the kin of those deceased. The Prime Minister's Office tweeted also announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh for the kin of those deceased. "Rs. 50,000 would be given to those seriously injured," the PMO tweeted, extending condolences for the tragic loss.