Local authorities confirmed that the blast occurred on April 21 while around 40 workers were inside the facility preparing fireworks, reportedly ahead of a major Hindu religious celebration.

The explosion was so intense that it was heard across several kilometers, damaging nearby homes and initially causing panic among residents, some of whom feared it was an earthquake.

The incident comes just days after another deadly explosion in Tamil Nadu, where 25 people lost their lives in a similar accident, raising renewed concerns over safety standards in fireworks factories across the region.

Kerala’s State Minister for Revenue, K Rajan, indicated that the facility had been authorized to operate as part of preparations for annual festivities, though investigations are expected to determine the exact cause of the explosion.

Meanwhile, India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, expressed condolences to the bereaved families and directed authorities to provide assistance to victims and ensure proper medical care for the injured.

Authorities are continuing investigations as concerns grow over industrial safety and regulatory enforcement in the fireworks sector.