Mundathikode fireworks tragedy: Judicial commission finds 7,000 kg of explosives stored against 15 kg permitted

The commission headed by former Justice CN Ramachandran Nair, appointed by the government to inquire into the fireworks tragedy that occurred on April 21 in Mundathikkode, has submitted its report. The report was given at the office of Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala.

The judicial commission appointed by the state government to probe the Mundathikode fireworks tragedy has submitted its report to the government. The commission headed by former Justice CN Ramachandran Nair submitted the report to Home Minister Ramesh Chennithal in his chambers.

A massive explosion occurred at a fireworks unit in Mundathikode, Thrissur, on April 21, 2026, when materials were being prepared for fireworks for the Thiruvambady faction ahead of the Thrissur Pooram. 16 people died and 40 were injured in the tragedy.

The commission found that explosives were stored in the unit in quantities far exceeding the permitted limit. While permission was granted to store only 15kg of explosive materials, those who took on the fireworks contract had around 7,000kg stored at the site.

The report also attributed the explosion to the widespread use of potassium chlorate, a banned explosive substance, in the manufacture of fireworks.

According to the commission, friction between chemicals at high temperatures started the fire, which eventually led to a massive explosion.

Published – 03 Nov 2026 20:14 IST