New Delhi, April 20 (QNA) - Twenty-three workers were killed and others wounded in an explosion at a fireworks factory in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu state, India.
According to Indian media, the explosion occurred Sunday night at a factory in Kattanarpatti village where workers were handling chemicals used in fireworks.
Local officials said the explosion was most likely caused by friction between chemicals, which led to the collapse of several roofs at the factory.
Rescue teams arrived at the scene and began operations to extinguish the fire and extract those trapped under the rubble. The injured were immediately transported to the hospital, many in critical condition due to burns.
The district administration stated that the factory was licensed, but that operating on Sunday was a violation of regulations. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and have revoked the factory's license.
The areas of Virudhunagar and Sivakasi are considered major centers for the manufacture of fireworks in India, where thousands of people work. (QNA)