Chennai: A powerful explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit in Virudhunagar district has left at least 25 people dead, officials confirmed on Sunday, with rescue operations continuing amid concerns over safety at the site.

District Collector NO Sukhaputra stated that 19 of the victims have been identified so far, including 16 women and three men. Six of the injured remain in intensive care.

The incident was further complicated when a second blast occurred during ongoing rescue efforts, injuring around 13 personnel, including members of the police, fire and rescue services, revenue officials and volunteers. Authorities said none of those injured in the secondary explosion are in a serious condition and are receiving medical treatment.

The blast reportedly took place at around 3 pm near Kattanarpatti, prompting an immediate response from emergency services after local residents raised the alarm. Firefighters and rescue teams rushed to the scene and began efforts to contain the blaze and locate survivors. Those rescued were transported to a nearby government hospital.

The district administration has deployed a senior IAS officer to oversee relief and rescue operations. A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered, and an investigation into the cause of the explosion is underway.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing the incident as “deeply distressing” and wishing a speedy recovery to those injured. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also conveyed his sympathies to the bereaved families.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin said he had directed senior ministers to visit the site, oversee rescue operations and provide support to affected families. He added that he had spoken with the district administration to ensure all necessary assistance was being coordinated.

Rescue and recovery operations remain ongoing as authorities work to determine the circumstances leading to the deadly blast.