Thrissur blast: Drone scans site, robot deployed as repeated explosions block rescue

Thrissur: The fireworks explosion site in Mundathikode in Thrissur district of Kerala, remains unstable, with fire officials confirming that continuous blasts are still occurring hours after the incident.

The Fire and Rescue Services have been unable to enter the core area due to the high risk of further explosions.

Officials said rescuers are currently focusing on preventing the fire from spreading to nearby areas while waiting for the situation to stabilise.

Drones used to assess damage

Due to the dangerous conditions, drones have been deployed by the police and fire force to inspect the site. The aerial surveillance is being used to assess the intensity of the blast, locate possible survivors, and identify bodies in the affected area.

Reports also indicate that a body may have been spotted during drone monitoring, although confirmation is awaited.

Robot deployed for firefighting operations

State Fire Force Chief Nitin Agarwal said that a firefighting robot will be used once conditions allow closer access. The robot is expected to enter areas that are currently too risky for human personnel and assist in dousing remaining flames with water.

He added that the use of technology is essential as repeated explosions have made manual firefighting impossible at this stage.

Agarwal cautioned that further explosions cannot be ruled out, describing the site as highly volatile. He said rescue teams will only be able to fully enter the area after the fire is completely brought under control.

Efforts are ongoing to ensure that the fire does not spread to nearby zones.

Casualties and emergency response

The explosion occurred around 3:30 pm at a fireworks shed in Mundathikode, where firecrackers were being prepared for Thrissur Pooram. Initial reports confirmed multiple deaths and several injuries, with victims admitted to Thrissur Medical College Hospital and private hospitals.

State Health Minister Veena George directed emergency medical arrangements, including additional ambulance deployment, while a magisterial inquiry has been ordered into the incident.

District Collector Shikha Surendran has ordered a detailed magisterial-level investigation into the cause of the explosion. The Thrissur RDO has been assigned to examine the circumstances and assess safety violations, if any.