Amid concerns following the Mundathikode fireworks tragedy at the renowned Thrissur Pooram festival, Kerala Dewaswoms Minister V. N. Vasavan announced an investigation to determine if excessive explosive materials were stored at the site. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with human remains being found in the vicinity. The government plans to hold discussions to prevent similar incidents in the future, emphasizing a shift towards safer fireworks practices.
Vasavan highlighted the importance of prioritizing visual appeal over noise in fireworks displays, citing international events like the Olympics. This year’s Thrissur Pooram fireworks display has been canceled in light of the tragedy. The minister confirmed a total of 14 fatalities, with DNA testing being conducted on 29 sets of human remains recovered so far.
Ten victims were initially identified, with an additional casualty confirmed later. Four individuals are still missing, while the condition of four injured persons remains critical. Some individuals with minor injuries have been discharged. While 38 people were present during the incident, official records specifying the exact number were lost in the explosion.
Search teams have discovered body parts in areas far from the accident site, indicating the magnitude of the blast. Authorities found parts of a head about 400 meters away and a hand nearly a kilometer from the site. There are suspicions that stray animals might have carried some remains. Additional fragments have been located in nearby paddy fields, with search operations aided by cadaver dogs.
Police teams, assisted by local residents, are combing nearby residential areas. DNA analysis results are anticipated to start arriving from Saturday, crucial for victim identification. A mobile DNA testing unit has been set up at Thrissur Medical College to expedite the process. The findings from DNA testing will be vital in understanding the full scope of the tragedy.
