Police in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, are investigating a tragic incident where two individuals lost their lives and another was seriously injured in a powerful explosion at an alleged illegal firecracker manufacturing unit near Kovilpatti. The explosion occurred late at night on Tuesday at a private building in the Kattu Kovil area of Puliyankulam village. It is believed that the victims were involved in producing fireworks materials when the blast occurred, leading to the complete collapse of the building.
The deceased have been identified as Ayyappan from Puliyankulam village and Malathi from Pullagoundanpatti in Virudhunagar district. Both individuals were trapped under the debris and succumbed to the blast’s impact. Another person, Surya Prakash, was seriously injured and is currently in critical condition at Kovilpatti Government Hospital. Emergency personnel rescued him from the rubble following the explosion.
Upon receiving the report of the blast, Kovilpatti Fire and Rescue Services personnel rushed to the scene to conduct rescue operations. The bodies of the victims were recovered from the collapsed structure after firefighters and rescue workers cleared the debris. The deceased were then taken to Kovilpatti Government Hospital for post-mortem examinations.
Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the explosion, with initial assessments suggesting that the use of highly flammable chemicals in firecracker production may have triggered the blast. Officials are also looking into whether the manufacturing unit was operating without the necessary licenses and safety approvals. Kovilpatti West Police have initiated a detailed investigation into the incident and are expected to question local residents and examine the source of explosive materials found at the site.
Senior revenue and police officials, including Kovilpatti Sub-Collector Hiyuman Sumangal, DSP Jagannathan, and Tahsildar Appanaraj, visited the site to evaluate the situation and oversee the initial inquiry.
