14 dead in blast at fireworks factory in Tamil Nadu

19:40 February 12

Death toll rises to 14

According to reports, the death toll in the Virudhunagar fireworks factory blast has risen to 14, which includes five women. As many as 36 others were reportedly injured in the mishap.

16:21 February 12

11 dead in blast at fireworks factory in Tamil Nadu

Virudhunagar (Tamil Nadu): At least 11 people were killed and 11 others injured in an explosion at a private fireworks factory in Tamil Nadu's Virudhunagar district on Friday.

The blast occurred when employees were involved in production at the Mariyammal Fireworks Factory in Achankulam village near Sattur.

The incident happened while some chemicals were being mixed to produce fireworks, police said.

Ten fire fighting units from various locations were rushed to the spot to douse the fire in the factory.

According to reports, the factory employs about 100 people.

Meanwhile, the death toll is reportedly likely to increase.

The Chief Minister announced ex-gratia of Rs three lakh each to the kin of the deceased and Rs one lakh each for the critically injured.

"I have instructed district authorities and medical experts to give the best treatment to injured. I have also asked the local administration to ensure that families of deceased and injured are informed and necessary arrangements made. Also asked district authorities to inspect such industries on regular basis," Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami said.

Similarly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Rs two lakh compensation from the PM National Relief Fund for the kin of deceased. He also said that Rs 50,000 will be provided to the injured in the accident.  

He added that he felt pained to hear about the news of deaths, and said he was praying for the speedy recovery of injured.  

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi too expressed condolence to the victims of the accident. He tweeted, "Heartfelt condolences to the victims of the firecracker factory fire in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu. It's heart-wrenching to think of those still trapped inside. I appeal to the state government to provide immediate rescue, support & relief"

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