Thiruvananthapuram: A person was injured in an explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit at Nanniyode on Thursday morning. Sajin Vishwam, 22 of Anakuzhi, sustained 40% burn injuries and was admitted in the ICU of a private hospital in Nedumangad.Police said the explosion occurred around 9am while firecrackers were being manufactured. Preliminary investigations indicated that a wick caught fire while being tied, triggering the blast. Officials said the unit was functioning without a valid licence.
According to police, the licence for the unit had earlier been issued in the name of a person identified as Biju, who died several months ago. With his death, the licence expired, but the manufacturing activity allegedly continued illegally. Following the incident, an attempt was made to clear the unit and destroy evidence, investigators said. Based on this, police intensified the probe and took steps to preserve the scene. Forensic experts and personnel from Vithura fire force unit reached the spot and carried out a preliminary inspection. Evidence was collected to determine the exact cause of the blast and assess the extent of violations. Palode police have registered a case in connection with the incident and sealed the area. Further legal action would be initiated based on the findings of the forensic examination, police said.
