One killed in explosion at fireworks manufacturing unit

Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, Oct 29 (UNI) One worker was killed and seven others were seriously injured in an explosion at a fireworks manufacturing unit at Suthakulam village near Cuddalore, this evening.

Police sources said the mishap occurred when the employees were busy manufacturing fireworks ahead of the Diwali festival season.

The building was razed to the ground under the impact of the explosion, heard even six km away. Residents of neighbouring villages rushed to the spot on hearing the sound.

The deceased was identified as Rayar (40) of Chellankuppam village, who succumbed to injuries at a private hospital here.

The injured, M Vinod, C Lakshmi, R Pounu, R Renu, Uma, Sekar and Renu, were being treated at the hospital with 60 per cent burns. The condition of four of them was stated to be serious.

Superintendent of Police Pradeep Kumar said a probe would be ordered into the incident.

Tension prevailed in the area following the mishap.

UNI