25 Killed in Fireworks Unit Blast in Tamil Nadu; PM Modi, Leaders Condole

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, April 20, 2026: 25 workers were killed in a massive explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound grief over the incident and extended condolences to the bereaved families. In a post on X, he said the mishap was “deeply distressing” and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also conveyed his condolences, stating he was deeply saddened by the tragedy and wished a quick recovery for those injured.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin said he had directed Ministers K. K. S. S. R. Ramachandran and Thangam Thennarasu to rush to the site to monitor rescue operations and provide support to affected families. He added that he had instructed the district administration to ensure all necessary assistance.

The explosion occurred around 3 pm at a licensed fireworks unit, identified as ‘Vanaja Fireworks’, near Kattanarpatti in Virudhunagar district. 

Police from Vachakarapatti station have registered a case and are investigating the cause of the blast.