Chennai: At least 18 people have been killed and six others injured in a devastating explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit in Kattanarpatti, near Virudhunagar in Tamil Nadu, on Sunday, sending shockwaves across the state.

The blast occurred at the Vanaja Firecracker Factory, owned by Muthu Manickam of Govindanallur, which was reportedly operating with a valid licence issued by the Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO).

According to initial reports, more than 30 workers were inside the premises at the time, carrying out routine production work. Officials said the explosion is believed to have been triggered by friction during the manufacturing process, which led to the sudden ignition of highly combustible materials.

The force of the blast was so powerful that at least four rooms in the factory were completely destroyed. Residents in surrounding areas reported hearing the explosion from as far as 10 kilometres away, highlighting its intensity.

Fire and rescue teams from nearby towns, including Sivakasi, Sattur and Virudhunagar, rushed to the scene shortly after the incident. Firefighters battled the flames for over an hour before bringing the situation under control, enabling rescue teams to enter the severely damaged site.

Authorities described the rescue operation as particularly challenging, with several workers trapped beneath the debris. Teams worked carefully to retrieve bodies from the rubble. While initial reports put the death toll at 14, it later rose to 18 as search efforts continued.

Those injured were taken to nearby hospitals, where they are receiving treatment. Officials said their condition is being closely monitored.

The Superintendent of Police, Sreenatha, visited the site and is overseeing both the rescue efforts and the ongoing investigation.

Police have registered a case and launched a detailed inquiry to establish the exact cause of the explosion and to determine whether safety regulations were adequately followed.