President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep sorrow and grief over the tragic incident of an explosion at a firecracker factory near Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu. In a heartfelt message shared on social media, President Murmu conveyed her condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in the unfortunate incident. The incident has caused widespread devastation and has undoubtedly left a profound impact on the local community.
President Murmu’s message of solidarity and compassion serves as a source of solace for the affected families and the entire nation. It underscores the importance of unity and support during times of adversity.
A devastating explosion rocked a firecracker factory located at Sengamalapatti near Sivakasi in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu today, resulting in a tragic loss of lives and leaving several workers severely injured. The incident, which occurred around 2:15 pm on May 9, has once again highlighted the dangers associated with the firecracker manufacturing industry in the region.
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Initial reports suggest that at least ten workers have been killed in the explosion, while scores of others have sustained serious injuries. Among the injured, 12 workers, including seven women, were severely wounded and have been admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment. However, conflicting reports indicate that as many as 22 people were injured in the incident.
The explosion, which caused severe damage to the factory premises, resulted in the complete gutting of seven rooms within the unit. Rescue operations are currently underway, with police and fire brigade personnel working tirelessly to extricate any trapped workers from the debris.
Videos captured at the scene depict thick smoke billowing from the area, accompanied by minor explosions, as rescuers cautiously navigate the site in search of survivors. One injured individual was seen being transported on a wheelbarrow for medical attention.
This tragic incident adds to a string of fatal explosions that have plagued Sivakasi, often referred to as the firecracker capital of India, in recent years. Just last October, 27 people lost their lives in less than a fortnight due to explosions in various factories. This month alone, three fatalities were reported in an explosion at a stone quarry, while another quarry fire claimed three lives on May 1. In February 2024, ten people were killed in a similar explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit.
Experts attribute these recurring accidents to blatant safety violations rampant within the industry. Many workers lack proper training and knowledge of handling the chemicals involved in the manufacturing process, leading to mishaps and endangering lives. Safety norms are often overlooked, with workers routinely tasked with handling excessive amounts of explosives to meet production deadlines, further increasing the risk of accidents.
Chief Minister MK Stalin has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and has assured that relief will be provided to the affected families pending approval from the Election Commission due to the ongoing model code of conduct.
சிவகாசி அருகிலுள்ள கீழதிருத்தங்கல் கிராமத்தில் உள்ள தனியார் பட்டாசு ஆலை ஒன்றில் ஏற்பட்ட வெடி விபத்தில் 8 தொழிலாளர்கள் உயிரிழந்த துயரச் செய்தியறிந்து மிகுந்த வேதனையடைந்தேன்.
உடனடியாக விருதுநகர் மாவட்ட ஆட்சியரைத் தொடர்புகொண்டு, மீட்பு நடவடிக்கைகளைத் துரிதமாக மேற்கொள்ள…
— M.K.Stalin – தமிழ்நாட்டை தலைகுனிய விடமாட்டேன் (@mkstalin) May 9, 2024
CM Stalin said in the post, “I have immediately contacted the District Collector of Virudhunagar and instructed them to carry out the rescue operations as soon as possible and have also directed to ensure that the injured get proper treatment,
A panel formed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to probe the blast earlier in February this year recommended several administrative and technical measures, along regular monitoring of units, to prevent accidents. The panel also suggested that workers be trained and certified before they are employed in handling hazardous materials.
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