Fireworks explosion death toll rises to 7

Kochi, May 5

The latest reports have put the death toll in the explosion at a fireworks manufacturing unit at Pudukkad near Thrissur yesterday, at seven following three more workers succumbing to their injuries today. All the seven have been identified.

Of the six injured who have been admitted to hospital condition of two is said to be serious. A total of 13 persons were inside the unit when the fire crackers exploded.  The fireworks were being manufactured for the Thrissur Pooram on May 07. When the workers were preparing for the trial fire works which was to be held today, the mishap happened.

Irrigation Minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, who visited the spot and the hospital where the injured have been admitted, told reporters that a magisterial inquiry had been ordered into the incident. He said that the government was of the opinion that the fireworks display this year should be given up following the mishap. Stern action would be taken against those who had violated the terms and conditions stipulated in the explosives licence, he added.