New Delhi: A massive blast destroyed a fireworks factory in Tamil Nadu's Tiruchirappalli district, with at least 15 people reported dead, according to the local media.
The factory building collapsed as a result of the explosion. Two bodies had been recovered, NDTV reported, quoting officials. Initial reports said the building was an explosives factory, but this count
According to a factory official, 15 workers inside the building at the time of explosion which took place around 7:45 am on Thursday (5.15am Dubai).
"An explosion was heard at Vetrivel Explosives near Tiruchirappalli (333 km from Chennai) in the morning. The ground and first floors have collapsed," said G. Sathyanarayanan, deputy director-in-charge of Fire and Rescue services (central region), Tamil Nadu.
"The fire is under control, but smoke was still emanating, which is being tackled," Sathyanarayanan said. Around 25 fire service personnel were at the accident site. Three fire tenders were pressed into service.
"Once the debris are cleared, we would know about the number of fatalities, if any," he said. The incident took place in Muruganterry in Thurayoor.
Three fire engines were sent to the blast site to contain the fire. It was not immediately known what caused the explosion.
More details to follow.
