At Least 14 Dead, 40 Injured in Kerala Fireworks Plant Blast Ahead of Thrissur Pooram

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Thrissur: At least 14 people were killed and around 40 others injured after an explosion ripped through a fireworks manufacturing unit in the southern Indian state of Kerala ahead of the annual Thrissur Pooram festival, officials said.

The blast occurred on Tuesday at a facility in Thrissur district where fireworks were being prepared for celebrations linked to one of India’s largest temple festivals. Rescue teams and firefighters rushed to the site as flames and debris spread through the area.

Kerala’s government later declared the incident a state-specific disaster, enabling special emergency measures, compensation support and coordinated relief efforts.

Several of the injured suffered serious burns and were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities warned the death toll could rise as rescue workers continued searching the wreckage.

Thrissur Pooram, famed for its grand processions, decorated elephants, percussion performances and elaborate fireworks displays, draws thousands of visitors each year from across India and overseas.

Police have opened an investigation into the cause of the blast, with early reports suggesting possible safety violations in the storage or handling of explosive materials.

Industrial accidents involving fireworks units are relatively common in India, where concerns over safety standards and enforcement persist.