Ten people are feared dead in a blast at an explosive manufacturing centre (explosives to break rocks) at Thuraiyur in Trichy.
Fire officials have said that 16 workers are believed to be trapped inside. The fire has been contained but the building has collapsed.
The blast took place at Gelatin manufacturing centre when the sticks were being moved into a vehicle. The incident took place at around 7 am and the manufacturing unit had around 20 people present at the time of the blast, according to preliminary information.
The building where the fire broke out is called Verrivel Explosive Ltd and it manufactures mild explosives for mine digging and hard rock cracking.
The area was said to have been engulfed in motric acid fumes but that has been brought under control. Rescue units have started their operation and according to reports, the casualty number is expected to increase.