New Delhi/Thrissur, April 21 (IANS) Saddened by the loss of lives in the explosion at a firecracker facility in Thrissur, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and conveyed his heartfelt sympathies.​

Describing the incident as profoundly tragic, the Prime Minister said he was anguished by the scale of the loss of life, which has cast a shadow over the region ahead of the upcoming Thrissur Pooram festivities.​

The Prime Minister announced an ex gratia relief of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the next of kin of each deceased, while those injured will receive Rs 50,000.​

He also stated that the government stands firmly with the affected families and assured them that all necessary assistance will be extended without delay.​

According to official reports, 13 people have died in the explosion so far, while 13 others are undergoing treatment in various hospitals.​

The condition of five of the injured is reported to be serious, with medical teams providing intensive care and closely monitoring their progress.​

Rescue and relief operations continued through the day as authorities assessed the extent of damage at the site.​

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, calling the explosion heartbreaking and noting the scale of devastation at the fireworks facility in Thrissur.​

He said his thoughts are with the bereaved families and urged authorities to ensure swift rescue efforts, along with immediate and adequate medical care for all those injured.​

Wayanad Congress Member of Parliament Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also conveyed her condolences, stating she was deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the explosion.​

She extended her sympathies to the grieving families and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured, while expressing solidarity with all those affected.​

Communist Party of India Secretary Binoy Viswam expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and said he shares in their deep grief.​

He urged the government to ensure adequate compensation and immediate specialised treatment for the injured.​

Viswam also said the tragedy calls for serious reflection by festival committees and religious scholars on the continued use of hazardous explosive materials in festival-related activities.​

The incident has once again raised concerns over safety standards in fireworks manufacturing units, even as the region mourns the loss of lives in the devastating blast.​

–IANS

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