SIVAKASI: A woman worker was killed and six others sustained grievous injures in a blast at a fire crackers unit at Puliparaipatti village near Sivakasi in Virudhunagar district on Thursday.
The deceased was identified as Parameswari (55) from Thiruvengadapuram village. Police have admitted six workers to Sivakasi Government hospital for treatment, half of whom in critical condition.
Police sources said that Ponnuthayi and Vasantha from Anaiyur village have sustained 100 per cent burn injuries while one Gandhi from same village sustained 90 per cent burn injuries. The condition of the three workers is critical, police said, adding, two more workers Muthu and Aandichi were also undergoing treatment in the hospital.
Revenue department officials who inspected the spot said that the blast took place due to mishandling of fireworks. Though there were ten sheds in the factory for preparing crackers, the workers were involved in making 'chorsas' in open space in the premises. "The fire might have triggered due to friction when the workers mishandled 'chorsa' and the fire spread to other areas due to strong wind," said an official.
A shed had completely collapsed and two more sheds were partially damaged. The fire and rescue services team rushed to the spot and put of the fire. "We are yet to ascertain the real cause of the incident," added the officer. The fire unit had obtained a DRO license.
The owner Vairamuthu Kumar and factor manager and foreman were absconding. Police have registered a case and are investigating.
