Second Fireworks Disaster in Days: Massive Blaze Kills 13 at Thrissur Unit in Kerala
Thrissur (Kerala), April 21, 2026 — Just days after a horrific fireworks factory explosion in Tamil Nadu claimed over 20 lives, another catastrophic incident has struck the southern state of Kerala. A massive fire erupted at a fireworks storage facility in the Mundathikode area of Thrissur district on Tuesday, killing at least 13 people and leaving several others severely injured.
The tragic incident comes at a time when the region is already reeling from the devastating Virudhunagar blasts.
Just days ahead of the famous #Thrissur Pooram festival a major explosion was reported at a fireworks storage facility. At least 3 people have been reported dead, with fears of more casualties or injuries as rescue operations continue. #Kerala pic.twitter.com/WPCBg2tmlQ
— Ashish (@KP_Aashish) April 21, 2026
5 Suffer Critical Injuries
According to the initial reports from the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), the sudden blaze engulfed the storage facility, causing heavy casualties.
Rescue teams rushed to the site and immediately shifted the victims to nearby medical facilities. The KSDMA confirmed that out of those injured in the explosion, at least five individuals are currently fighting for their lives in critical condition. Two others have been admitted to general wards with severe burns, while 17 individuals sustained minor injuries during the chaos and subsequent rescue efforts.
The exact cause of the fire at the Mundathikode facility is still under investigation, though preliminary suspicions point toward improper handling and storage of highly combustible materials.
The Prime Minister has 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. https://t.co/TOGx8sEISm
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 21, 2026
PM Modi Announces Ex Gratia
Following the tragic news, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief over the loss of lives in Thrissur. The Prime Minister’s Office promptly announced financial assistance for the victims and their families.
An ex gratia of ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) will be provided to the next of kin of each deceased victim. Furthermore, ₹50,000 will be given to those who sustained injuries in the incident to assist with their medical treatment.
This is a developing story. Further details regarding the investigation and the status of the critically injured are awaited.
