At least eight people died and several injured in an explosion in a firecracker factory in Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu's Virudhunagar on Thursday.

The blast took place in a firecracker factory in Sivakasi's Sengamalapatti, owned by Sudharshan, on Thursday afternoon, destroying seven rooms of the factory.

Locals said that the magnitude of the blast was so high that a loud bang was heard from a distance of around 1 km. White smoke could be seen emanating from the factory after the blast.

Fire and rescue service personnel are at the spot. Further investigation is on.

President Draupadi Murmu offered condolences to the families of the workers who died in the blast.

"Saddened to learn about the loss of many lives due to an explosion at a firecracker factory near Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu. I convey my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for speedy recovery of the injured," she said in a post on X.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also offered condolences and said in a post on X, "I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic news of the death of 8 workers in an explosion in a private firecracker factory in Geezathiruthangal village near Sivakasi. I have immediately contacted the District Collector of Virudhunagar and instructed them to carry out the rescue operations as soon as possible and have also directed to ensure that the injured get proper treatment."

"I convey my deepest condolences and condolences to the families and relatives of the deceased workers. Relief assistance to the victims will be provided with the approval of the Election Commission," he added in the post.

Earlier this year, 10 people died following an explosion at a firecracker factory in Virudhunagar in February.

Similarly, 11 people were killed in two separate fire accidents at fireworks units in Rangapalayam and Kichanayakanpatti village in Virudhuanagar in October 2023.

Source: India Today