Deadly fireworks explosion in Thrissur kills 12 ahead of Thrissur Pooram festival. Kerala Chief Minister orders urgent emergency response and investigation into safety lapses at fireworks unit, raising concerns over festival preparations and public safety.
A devastating explosion tore through a fireworks preparation unit in Thrissur on Monday, leaving at least 12 people dead and several others injured, just days ahead of the grand Thrissur Pooram celebrations. The incident occurred at a storage and preparation shed linked to the festival’s much-anticipated fireworks display, triggering a massive fire that spread rapidly across the site.
Authorities confirmed that the blast happened during routine preparations for the event, one of the most prominent cultural and religious festivals in India. Thick plumes of smoke engulfed the area as panic-stricken workers and residents scrambled for safety. Emergency services rushed to the scene, with firefighters battling the blaze and rescue teams transporting the injured to nearby hospitals.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has ordered an immediate and comprehensive emergency response, directing officials to prioritize rescue operations and ensure medical assistance for the victims. A high-level investigation has also been initiated to determine the cause of the explosion and assess whether safety protocols were violated.
The Thrissur Pooram, held annually at the historic Vadakkunnathan Temple, draws over a million visitors each year and is renowned for its grand processions and spectacular fireworks. The tragedy has cast a shadow over this year’s festivities, raising serious concerns about safety measures in fireworks handling and storage.
| Also Read: Deadly Tamil Nadu firecracker factory explosion kills 18 workers |
Local authorities have cordoned off the area while forensic teams continue their examination. Officials indicated that strict action would be taken if negligence is found. Meanwhile, families of the victims are grappling with the sudden loss, as the state mourns one of the deadliest festival-related accidents in recent years.
