A frightening explosion occurred at a stone quarry in the southern Indian’s Tamil Nadu.

The incident took place in the Kariapatti area of Virudhunagar district on May 1.

Visuals depicted a fiery ball emerging after a massive explosion rattled the entire vicinity.

Initial reports suggest that the explosion tore through a storage facility suspected to house explosives. Rescue squads are methodically removing rubble and scouring for any unexploded substances.Area inhabitants have voiced long standing grievances regarding the quarry, citing safety risks and numerous accidents involving overloaded trucks. Allegedly, the quarry had been temporarily closed prior to the explosion.

Tiruneveli Zone DIG Ramya Bharati conducted an on-site assessment of the incident, witnessing heart-wrenching scenes of devastation and mourning as relatives of the victims lamented their losses. Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu Government has not yet announced any compensation for the families affected. The lack of immediate relief measures has compounded the anguish of those affected, especially as Chief Minister MK Stalin is currently vacationing with his family and associates at the Kodaikanal hill station.

The explosion’s impact was felt across a 20-kilometre radius, with tremors rippling through the region. As the rescue operation continues, there are concerns that the death toll may rise further. In light of the tragedy, locals are urging for a permanent ban on quarries storing highly potent explosives, citing past incidents in Virudhunagar district involving firecracker units that resulted in loss of lives.