Experts still unclear about tragedy cause

Thrissur: The reasons for the explosion at the fireworks manufacturing unit on Tuesday remained unclear even on Wednesday evening. Forensic experts collected samples from the accident site at Mundathicode, about 18km away from the city, and their test results are expected within a week. The electric inspectorate also conducted inspections to check whether there was a short circuit.A section of experts feel that the intense heat wave conditions and the high humidity might have contributed to the accident. However, other sections counter this by pointing out that the chemicals used for production of fireworks in Kerala are the same as used in other states where temperatures are higher. Lapses in adhering to safety norms and stocking of excessive quantities of explosives could have contributed to the accident, said some experts.Authorities' inability to gather correct data on the number of people present at the unit when the explosion took place, is cited as lack of rigour in ensuring strict compliance to safety norms. The argument that those entering the unit don't sign the entry registry like govt offices is indicative of the lack of awareness of the hazardous nature of fireworks production industry.Only those associated with production works should be permitted in such hazardous industries, said experts. "Though it's too early to arrive at a conclusive view on the reason for the explosion, one plausible mechanism is the introduction of grit or hard foreign particles into the gunpowder composition and generation of frictional heat during stemming or ramming operations. Entry of non-essential visitors could be a conduit for the introduction of hard foreign particles like stones into the unit premises. The possibilities of the use of banned chemicals like potassium chlorate cannot be ruled out, considering the explosion intensity,'' said R Venugopal, former joint chief controller of explosives, Petroleum & Explosives Safety Organization. Official sources said Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu Devaswoms each have been granted licences to stock 2,000kg of fireworks for the main display event. However, it is well known that much higher quantities of explosives are used. Meanwhile, there is a growing demand to abandon the fireworks display held in connection with various festivals in the state considering the high risks involved. Justice P S Gopinathan, who probed the Puttingal Devi Temple fireworks tragedy which claimed about 100 lives, said, "Fireworks displays are not part of religious practices. They are part of celebrations and have commercial dimensions." He said the Mundathicode incident could have been avoided if his recommendations in the Puttingal tragedy probe report were implemented.Meanwhile, a group of cultural activists launched a dharna in Thrissur on Wednesday, demanding a ban on fireworks production and display.