Tragic Blast at Firecracker Factory in Kerala Leaves Thirteen Dead

Wed Apr 22 2026 11:44:14 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A second deadly explosion in a week at fireworks facilities in India has resulted in the death of at least 13 individuals in Kerala, raising concerns over safety in the fireworks industry.

In a devastating incident at a firecracker factory in Kerala, 13 people lost their lives due to an explosion that occurred while workers were assembling fireworks ahead of a local festival. This explosion marks the second such tragedy in just three days, following a similar incident in Tamil Nadu that left at least 25 dead. With the industry often criticized for safety lapses, officials are calling for an inquiry into these tragic events.

At least 13 people have been killed in an explosion at a firecracker factory in India's southern state of Kerala, officials say. The incident took place in Thrissur, where around 40 people were believed to be assembling firecrackers in a cluster of sheds for an upcoming festival. Several others were injured, with five reported to be in critical condition.

This was the second such incident this week. On Sunday, a blast at a firecracker factory in neighbouring Tamil Nadu state left at least 25 dead.

Accidental explosions are a grim routine in India's fireworks industry, recurring with troubling regularity - most visibly around Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu, which produces much of the country's supply.

The explosion in Thrissur on Tuesday around 15:30 local time (10:00 GMT) triggered secondary blasts that slowed rescue efforts. Firecrackers were being made in temporary sheds near paddy fields with poor road access, hampering emergency response.

The force of the blast was felt kilometres away - some residents mistook it for an earthquake - and nearby homes were damaged. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as locals joined rescue efforts, pulling out the injured and dead.

Kerala's Revenue Minister K Rajan told the BBC that all fireworks units preparing for the upcoming Thrissur Pooram - a major annual Hindu temple festival - had permission to manufacture and store fireworks in designated areas.

The workers were preparing fireworks for the Thiruvambady Temple, one of the two main participants in the climactic displays of the Thrissur Pooram. Officials are investigating the cause of the explosion, which remains unclear.

A magisterial inquiry has been ordered to establish what happened and fix responsibility, as the Kerala Chief Minister announced plans to bring medical experts from other states to treat burn victims if needed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced financial assistance of 200,000 rupees ($2,137; £1,582) for the families of the deceased persons, and 50,000 rupees for those injured.

Firecracker factory accidents are common in India due to poor safety standards and the handling of volatile chemicals in cramped, informal settings. The industry faces repeated scrutiny, especially during festivals when demands for fireworks increase, oftentimes compromising safety.