Factory Inspections and Explosions Shake Firecracker Industry in Virudhunagar

Over 200 firecracker factories in Virudhunagar district, Tamil Nadu, reopened following inspections triggered by several explosions, risking license cancellations. The NGT's intervention prompted voluntary shutdowns. A fatal explosion in Sivakasi heightened safety concerns, with Chief Minister MK Stalin expressing condolences over the tragedy. Cooperation with inspections remains a challenge.

In a significant move, over 200 firecracker factories in Virudhunagar district, Tamil Nadu, have reopened after a nine-day suspension prompted by rigorous inspections. The inspections, which came in response to a series of explosions, had forced these factories to halt operations amid fears of license cancellation.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) initiated these inspections, forming 15 teams to scrutinize firecracker factories across Sivakasi, Vembakottai, and nearby areas. Despite the closures, some factories voluntarily ceased operations to avoid any potential non-compliance issues, impacting their production timelines ahead of Diwali.

Tragedy struck, however, with a devastating explosion at a Sivakasi factory that resulted in three fatalities and three injuries. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin conveyed his condolences, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures while the NGT calls for stricter compliance and cooperation in ongoing inspections.

(With inputs from agencies.)