Fri Nov 07 00:18:00 UTC 2025: News Article:
Tamil Nadu Firecracker Industry Faces Scrutiny After Deadly Accidents
Chennai, November 7, 2025 – The Southern Bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered the Tamil Nadu government and the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) to provide a detailed account of safety protocols and employment practices within the state’s firecracker industry. This action comes in response to a series of fatal explosions in firecracker units, particularly in Sivakasi, Virudhunagar, and surrounding districts.
The NGT expressed strong concerns about the prevalent use of untrained laborers in hazardous operations, stating that many accidents could have been avoided through proper supervision and skill training. The tribunal has directed authorities to submit existing regulations pertaining to the engagement of skilled and unskilled workers, and to establish clear guidelines where none currently exist.
According to government data presented to the Bench, at least 134 people have died and 89 have been injured in firecracker unit accidents in Virudhunagar district alone since 2022. These incidents, many occurring in PESO-licensed units, have raised questions about the effectiveness of existing inspection and monitoring procedures.
The NGT has instructed the State and PESO to provide comprehensive details on inspections conducted over the past five years, including information on safety training and compliance checks. The tribunal also questioned whether penalties for employing unskilled or untrained workers are stringent enough to deter violations.
The Bench emphasized the need for a unified safety framework that includes qualified supervisors, ongoing worker training, mandatory insurance, and rigorous enforcement against those who fail to comply.
The case is scheduled for a final hearing on December 23rd. The NGT has warned that it will issue firm orders if the required documentation is not submitted by that date.
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