Thrissur Fireworks Unit Explosion Kills 3 During Pooram Preparations, Around 40 Injured

A devastating explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit in Mundathikode, Thrissur, where fireworks were being prepared for the Thiruvambady faction's display at Thrissur Pooram, has left at least three people dead and around 40 workers injured, according to initial reports. The incident turned even more alarming when another explosion occurred during rescue operations, complicating efforts to reach those trapped or hurt inside the premises.

Rescue Efforts Hit by Fresh Blasts and Access Problems

The injured were rushed to Thrissur Medical College Hospital, where five people are reported to be in critical condition. Authorities faced immediate challenges in launching rescue work, as the unit was located along a narrow access route, making it difficult for fire and rescue teams to enter quickly.

To reach the site, the Fire Force team had to break down a nearby wall before moving in. Even as rescuers worked, the danger continued, with another explosion reported in the middle of the operation, forcing teams to proceed with extreme caution.

Main Fireworks In-Charge Among Those Injured

Among those injured is Satheesan, the key person overseeing the fireworks preparations for the Thiruvambady side of the Pooram celebrations. Reports said the license for the Thiruvambady fireworks display is in the name of Mundathikode Satheeshan, making the incident especially significant in the context of the upcoming festival.

Officials are still trying to assess the full scale of the damage and identify everyone affected by the blast, as confusion continued at the site following the initial explosion and the secondary detonation.

Firecrackers Continue Exploding in Nearby Fields

The area around the fireworks shed remains highly dangerous. Following the powerful blast, firecrackers were thrown into nearby fields and have continued exploding, creating what officials described as an extremely hazardous atmosphere.

Eyewitnesses said the force of the blast was so intense that the explosion sound was heard several kilometres away. Debris from the site was also flung far from the unit, raising fears that more people may have been affected by the flying remnants.

Because of the risk posed by continuing explosions and scattered debris, no one is being allowed inside the core area for now.

Search for More Victims to Continue After Fire Is Fully Put Out

Authorities said a more detailed search for additional injured persons can begin only after the fire is fully extinguished. Until then, emergency teams are focused on containing the blaze and preventing further blasts.

There are also reports that several people who were inside the fireworks shed at the time of the explosion managed to run out and escape, though the exact number of workers present at the site when the blast occurred is still unclear.

With the Thrissur Pooram fireworks preparations underway, the explosion has raised serious concern over safety at firecracker manufacturing and storage units linked to one of Kerala's most famous temple festivals.