23 people killed in blast at TN firecracker factory

A massive explosion occurred at a private firecracker manufacturing factory in Tamil Nadu's Virudhunagar district, killing 23 workers and injuring several others. Rescue personnel are treating six injured people at the District Government Hospital. The blast occurred when workers were handling raw materials and giving finishing to firecrackers, severely damaging several rooms and adjacent structures. Preliminary investigations suggest the unit holds a license from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation.