Two workers killed in explosion at illegal fireworks unit in Sivakasi
An explosion at an illegal fireworks manufacturing unit near Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu, resulted in two deaths and left one person in critical condition. Authorities are currently searching for additional missing workers while investigating the illicit operation, which was disguised as an agricultural site.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the persistent safety risks and regulatory challenges surrounding illegal fireworks production in India's manufacturing hubs, particularly ahead of the peak Deepavali season.
Two workers were killed and another suffered 75% burns in an explosion at an illegal fireworks unit functioning out of a shed near Sengamalapatti in Sivakasi on Sunday (July 26, 2026). A search is under way for two persons, who, according to their relatives, also worked at the unit.
The police identified one of the deceased as R. Ramprakash, 36, of Sengamalapatti. The other victim is yet to be identified. The injured person was identified as R. Ramachandran, 38, Ramprakash’s elder brother. He has been admitted to the Virudhunagar Government Medical College hospital and is in a critical condition. Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services personnel from Sivakasi, led by Station Officer T. Seenivasan, rushed to the spot and brought the fire under control after a lengthy operation.
A van that was parked near the shed was gutted, while a two-wheeler was partially burnt in the blaze.
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