Over 70 people are feared dead and 200 injured after a fire broke out at the Puttingal temple in Kerala’s Kollam early this morning, police said today.
Senior police and district officials have reached the coastal city around 60 km from Thiruvananthapuram and the fire has been brought under control.
The fire broke out during celebrations involving firecrackers around 3 am, police said.
Several injured people have been rushed to hospitals nearby and in Thiruvananthapuram.
Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said the government will conduct a judicial probe in the incident. Victims will also be compensated, he said.
The festival of Vishu or the new year is being celebrated in Kerala. Fireworks happen in the early hours at the conclusion of temple festivals that are staggered across temples of Kerala during this season.
As per reports, the fireworks began at around 1 am and the tragedy occurred when sparks from the bursting crackers fell on stored firecrackers to a huge explosion.
The injured – mostly with serious burn injuries - have been admitted to government medical college, Thiruvananthapuram. Those with minor injuries are being treated at various hospitals in Meeyapuram and Kottiyam.
-Agencies
