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Kerala Fireworks Factory Blast Kills 12, PM Modi Announces Relief

A tragic explosion at a fireworks factory in Thrissur, Kerala, has claimed at least 12 lives. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased. The blast occurred during preparations for the renowned Thrissur Pooram temple festival, triggering a massive fire. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed the government machinery to be on high alert for rescue and medical assistance.

Key Points: Kerala Cracker Factory Blast: PM Modi Announces Ex-Gratia

  • 12 killed in Thrissur fireworks blast
  • PM announces Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia for kin
  • Blast occurred during Pooram festival prep
  • CM Vijayan orders high-alert rescue ops
  • Injured to receive Rs 50,000 each
2 min read

PM Modi condoles deaths in Kerala cracker factory mishap, announces ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh each​

PM Modi announces Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia after a deadly explosion at a Thrissur fireworks factory kills 12 during Pooram festival preparations.

"Saddened to hear about the loss of lives due to the mishap at a cracker factory in Thrissur, Keralam. - Narendra Modi"

New Delhi, April 21

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed condolences following a mishap at a cracker factory in Thrissur, Kerala, which claimed at least 12 lives.​

"Saddened to hear about the loss of lives due to the mishap at a cracker factory in Thrissur, Keralam. My deepest condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest," he said on X.​

The Prime Minister announced that an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs 50,000, said an official statement.​

The explosion at a fireworks unit in Thrissur took place on Monday during preparations for the Thrissur Pooram, one of India's most celebrated temple festivals.​

The explosion triggered a massive fire, sending thick smoke across the area and causing panic among workers and nearby residents.​

The incident took place amid ongoing preparations for the festival's grand fireworks display.​

The Thrissur Pooram is an annual Hindu temple festival held at the Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur, Kerala.​

It takes place every year on the Pooram day, the day when the moon rises with the Pooram star in the Malayalam month of Medam.​

Recognised as the largest and most famous of all Poorams in India, it is also one of the biggest festivals in Asia, attracting more than one million visitors.​

The tragedy occurred at a fireworks preparation and storage shed linked to the festival's celebrations.​

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan directed that the entire government machinery be placed on high alert to ensure immediate rescue and medical assistance.​

He met with the Chief Secretary and instructed that specialist treatment be provided to the seriously injured.​

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
It's good to see the PM and CM responding quickly. Rs 2 lakh is a start, but long-term support for the families, especially for children's education, is crucial. These workers often come from very poor backgrounds.
A
Arjun K
Tragic news. Thrissur Pooram is about celebration and devotion, not loss of life. While the financial aid is announced, the real test is ensuring it reaches the families without delay and red tape. Hope the injured get the best care possible.
S
Sarah B
This is so sad. Reading about the festival's scale and then this accident is a stark contrast. Safety audits for these seasonal factories before major festivals should be mandatory. Thoughts with Kerala.
V
Vikram M
A respectful criticism: Announcing ex-gratia is standard now, but prevention is better. Every year we hear of cracker unit accidents before Diwali or festivals. Where are the routine inspections? License raj for safety, not for business, is needed.
K
Kavya N
Om Shanti. May their souls rest in peace. The affected are mostly daily wage workers trying to earn a living for the festival season. Hope the government support is swift and the festival continues with a moment of silence for the departed.

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