8 Killed In Cracker Factory Fire In TN; PM Announces Rs 2 Lakh Ex Gratia

Chennai: At least 8 people are feared dead after a massive fire broke out at a firecracker factory at Virudhunagar in Tamil Nadu on Friday.

More than 14 workers are reported to be injured in the blast in the factory located in Sattur near Sivakasi.

The injured have been admitted to Sivakasi government hospital, till the reports last came in, stated of News stated.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed grief over the deaths in the blast and announced an ex gratia. The PM tweeted:

Fire at a firecracker factory in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu is saddening. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope those injured recover soon. Authorities are working on the ground to assist those affected.

An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each has been approved from PMNRF for the next of kin of those who have lost their lives due to a fire in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu. Rs. 50,000 would be given to those seriously injured.

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 12, 2021