Chennai: At least five people were killed Thursday in a fire at a fireworks godown at Thirumangalam in the Madurai district of Tamil Nadu.
Rescue work is underway. R Shiav Prasad, Madurai Superintendent of Police, told NDTV, "Five people have died. Its a storage cum cracker manugacturing unit. We are investigating the cause".
Ten others have suffered injuries and are being treated.
Investigators say the unit had licence to manufacture crackers. Another police officer on the ground added, "The mortal remains are dismembered. Such was the impact."
Videos show mutilated body parts strewn around the godown. A few concrete structures too appear blown away.
Another police official coordinating from Sindupatty police station said, "Two fire tenders have reached the spot. We hear identification is difficult."
Chief Minister M K Stalin has condoled the loss of life and has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for families who have lost a member in the tragedy.
"I've instructed to give best treatment at the Government Rajaji Medical College Hospital," the Chief Minister said in a statement.