Six Killed in Explosion at Fireworks Factory in Sattur, Tamil Nadu

The death toll is expected to increase, as the condition of several individuals hospitalized remains critical.

Chennai: A devastating explosion at a fireworks factory in Sattur, located in Tamil Nadu’s Virudhunagar district, has resulted in the deaths of six workers, with several others suffering severe burns. The blast occurred on Saturday, January 4, 2025. According to Sattur police, the number of fatalities is expected to rise, as the condition of several individuals admitted to the hospital remains critical.

The cause of the explosion is still under investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that a power leakage or friction between explosives during the firecracker preparation process may have triggered the blast.

The fire department responded quickly to the scene, extinguishing the blaze and conducting rescue operations. Police officials are currently examining the accident site and continuing their investigation.

Tamil Nadu CM Calls for Stricter Safety Measures in Fireworks Factories

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin recently visited Virudhunagar district, where he urged fireworks factory owners to adopt stringent safety measures to prevent such accidents in the future. During his visit, he also interacted with workers and reassured them that he had instructed factory owners to implement necessary precautions.

Despite the CM's efforts and assurances, similar incidents continue to occur in the region. Virudhunagar, particularly Sivakasi, is known as the fireworks capital of Tamil Nadu, housing the majority of the state's firecracker factories.

Ongoing Safety Concerns in Virudhunagar’s Fireworks Industry

Virudhunagar district, along with surrounding villages, is home to over 300 fireworks factories, which collectively employ nearly 400,000 workers across 1,150 factories. Sivakasi alone is responsible for producing 70% of India’s firecrackers. In 2024, the district saw 17 accidents in firecracker factories, leading to 54 fatalities.

The fireworks industry in Tamil Nadu has an annual turnover of approximately Rs 6,000 crore. However, industry leaders have noted a significant decline in production due to restrictions imposed by the Supreme Court. The court’s ban on barium nitrate, a key ingredient in firecracker manufacturing, and additional restrictions on joined crackers have resulted in a 30% reduction in production in Sivakasi.

Joined crackers, which consist of multiple firecrackers connected by a fuse, allow for a chain reaction when one firecracker is lit. The continued restrictions and safety issues present ongoing challenges for the region’s fireworks industry.