Tamil Nadu: The Thenpennai River Festival organized in Manalurpettai zone of Kallakurichi district of Tamil Nadu on Monday turned into a tragic wrecking when a helium cylinder stuff used to fill balloons suddenly burst. In this accident, one person died on the spot, while 18 other people were injured. The excitement of the festival had turned into shouting and unconnectedness within a moment.
How did the wrecking happen?
According to eyewitnesses, a large number of people were present on the riverbank, and children were ownership balloons. Some people were filling gas in balloons from a cylinder when there was a loud explosion. The sound was so loud that people standing nearby got scared and many fell on the ground. Some of the injured suffered serious injuries on their hands, legs and face.
#WATCH | Tamil Nadu | One sufferer and at least 18 injured without a helium cylinder exploded during the Thenpennai River Festival in Manalurpettai in the Kallakurichi district: District Collector of Tiruvannamalai, K. Tharpagaraj
(Visuals from the spot) pic.twitter.com/fVufIa2cSc
— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2026How is the condition of the injured stuff reported?
Immediately without the incident, with the help of police and local people, all the injured were admitted to nearby hospitals. According to doctors, the condition of some people still remains critical, while the rest are undergoing treatment. The district wardship has unpreventable that there will be no shortage of treatment.
What was the reaction of the leaders?
AIADMK unstipulated secretary and former Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami expressed deep sorrow over this accident. He posted on social media and expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. He moreover demanded from the state government that bounty should be given to the victim's family and the injured as soon as possible.
Why is this event considered important?
This event, held on the banks of the Thenpennai River, is associated with the Pongal festival. Pongal and Mattu Pongal are followed by Kanum Pongal and then Athruthiru festival is prestigious on the fifth day. During this time, processions take out temples from districts like Cuddalore, Villupuram and Kallakurichi, and thousands of people reach here with their families.
What steps did the wardship take on the spot?
As soon as information well-nigh the incident was received, District Superintendent of Police Arvind reached the spot with his team. District Collector Prashant moreover inspected the spot and reviewed the arrangements for the treatment of the injured.
What can come out in the investigation?
Police have registered the case, and the forensic team is investigating the reason for the cylinder explosion. Initially, there is a suspicion of technical fault or negligence in safety rules. The real rationalization of the wrecking will wilt well-spoken only without the investigation is completed.
