A major explosion occurred at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Mundathikode, where crackers were being prepared for the renowned Thrissur Pooram. According to initial reports, six people have lost their lives and around 40 others have been injured in the incident.
The accident took place at a fireworks shed operated under the Thiruvambady Devaswom. The unit belonged to fireworks licensee Mundathikode Satheesh, who also sustained burn injuries in the mishap.
Eyewitnesses reported that two powerful explosions occurred within minutes, creating an earth-shaking impact. Even after the initial blasts, fireworks continued to explode, making it impossible for locals to approach the site. The entire area was engulfed in a terrifying atmosphere, with fireworks scattering and bursting across the premises.
Fire and rescue teams faced difficulty reaching the spot due to narrow access roads. They later managed to enter the area by breaking a nearby wall to carry out rescue operations.
Five critically injured persons have been admitted to the Government Medical College Hospital Thrissur, while others are undergoing treatment at nearby hospitals.
Authorities are expected to initiate a detailed investigation into the cause of the explosion. Preliminary information indicates that the accident occurred in the storage area where fireworks meant for the Pooram were kept.