Four dead, eight injured in explosion at firecracker factory in India's Sivakasi

Four workers at a firecracker unit near Sivakasi, died in an explosion on Saturday, as work was underway to mix chemicals within the factory premises. The factory is understood to have been performing the customary ritual of starting work on New Year’s Day. Residents in the vicinity had alerted the police, fire and rescue departments after having heard an explosion. 

Up to eight others were also injured as a result of this explosion, and are undergoing treatment at the Sivakasi government hospital. As a result, nearly three rooms in the factory were reduced to rubble as a result of the blast impact. Police and district officials are conducting a probe to ascertain the details of the incident. 

Videos from the site showed the public gathered around the factory, in large numbers and earthmovers clearing the rubble. Rescue personnel were also seen at work, preparing an ambulance bed to rescue those who were involved in the unfortunate accident. 

Similar tragic blasts at firecracker units are common occurrences and repeat multiple times a year, despite stern warnings from the courts that such units must be regulated, inspected by authorities, and made to follow adequate precautions.