Collector warns cracker units after bid to stall inspection

Virudhunagar: Cracking down on safety violations in the fireworks industry, Virudhunagar district collector N N O Sukaputra led a series of intensive surprise inspections across Virudhunagar, Sivakasi and Vembakottai taluks on Saturday. Official sources said this was part of a rigorous drive to ensure strict adherence to Explosives Act and prevent recurring industrial accidents that have plagued the region.During the inspection, the officials found the main gates of several units locked, thus stalling the audit. Suspecting this as a deliberate attempt to conceal irregularities or safety breaches, the collector ordered that official notices be pasted on the gates of the non-compliant factories.The district administration has issued a stern warning to the owners of these units, demanding a comprehensive explanation for their lack of cooperation within three days. The notice said if the justifications provided are found unsatisfactory or if the management fails to respond within the timeframe, the manufacturing licences of the factories will be permanently revoked.Reiterating the govt's stance on industrial safety, the district administration emphasised that these field inspections are essential to safeguard the lives of thousands of workers and the general public. Authorities said such unannounced checks will continue systematically to ensure that every firework unit operates strictly within the legal framework and safety protocols mandated.