In Tamil Nadu, the death toll in the fire accident at a cracker godown and a factory at Mudalpatti near Sivakasi has risen to 54.

More than 40 persons have been injured in the incident.

State Finance Minister, O. Panneerselvam accompanied by three other Ministers are rushing to the spot.

More than ten fire fighters are braving the odds to quench the flames which broke out at 45 rooms in which inflammable material was stored.

Since the crackers are still bursting, the rescue teams are facing difficulty in putting out the fire.

Meanwhile, special wards have been set up at various hospitals in Madurai,Virudhunagar, Satur, Arupukkottai and Sivakasi to treat the injured in the incident.

Ambulances from nearby districts have also been pressed into service to carry the injured.