Thrissur, Kerala: The survivors of the Mundathikode fireworks explosion believe the fire that caused the deadly accident began in the gunpowder storage room. Within seconds, the flames are believed to have spread to workers who were filling explosive powder into shells nearby, triggering a massive blast.

One clock remained at the Mundathikode disaster site as silent evidence of the exact moment tragedy struck. It was hanging outside the room where workers changed clothes at the fireworks manufacturing unit. When it stopped, the time shown was 3:25:15.

More than ten people are believed to have been present near the point of the first explosion. The survivors said body parts found scattered at the site were likely those of people who had been working there.

Preparations for Tuesday night’s fireworks display for the St. John the Evangelist Church, Kuttamkulam, were reportedly progressing at high speed. The workers were making ‘Gund’ (or Gundu), which refers to the traditional high-decibel explosive shells and dynamites used in Kerala festivals, while some ‘Gunds’ had already been filled with explosive powder and fitted with fuses. The survivors said the fire first spread to these ready-to-use materials, worsening the scale of the disaster.

They recalled first hearing a crackling sound, like a burning sparkler, from the gunpowder room. Nearby, others were filling smaller shells. By the time someone shouted “Run!”, the flames had reached the section where larger ‘Gunds’ were being prepared, causing a huge explosion.

Those working on smaller shells managed to escape after hearing the sound. Eight people, including licensed operator Satheesh, were reportedly in that section. The survivors said ‘gunds’ and fireworks exploded around and above those trying to flee.

Some also fell while running after being struck by debris. Those engaged in making small crackers, drying fuses and filling powder had a few seconds to escape. Many ran into the paddy field to save themselves.

As fireworks materials meant to be burst only under controlled conditions at festival grounds exploded uncontrollably, the flames quickly spread to the powder room and nearby sheds storing fireworks stock. The intense flash temporarily affected the eyesight of many and impacted hearing as well.

500 kg of unexploded fireworks found

Officials recovered more than 500 kilograms of unexploded fireworks materials from the blast site. This included 362 kg of gunpowder stored in 15 sacks in a locked raw material room, 50.9 kg of aluminium powder and one kilogram of gunpowder pellets.

In addition, 96 small explosives weighing nearly 100 kg, five medium-sized Gunds, six colour shells and three LED units were recovered unexploded.

The materials were partially neutralised and shifted under police protection to Wadakkanchery. They will be completely defused after obtaining court permission. Fireworks manufacturing expert Vijesh assisted police in the operation.

No fireworks at Thrissur Pooram; celebrations scaled down

In the wake of the Mundathikode fireworks tragedy, authorities have decided to cancel all fireworks displays at this year’s Thrissur Pooram. Other celebrations will also be scaled down.

The famous Kudamattam ceremony, which usually lasts more than one-and-a-half hours, will be reduced to just 15 minutes.