Over 102 People dead ,350 injured in Kerala Temple Fire Tragedy

10 April, Paravoor(Kerala)

At least 102 people were charred to death and over 350 people suffered burn injuries when fireworks exploded at Paravoor Puttingal Devi Temple this morning during a temple festival in this district of Kerala Sunday morning.

Police said the fireworks kept near the Devaswom office caught fire leading to the massive explosion.

Many people were also injured in the collapse of the Devaswom building.Only few bodies could be identified so far as they were charred beyond recognition, police said here.

Hundreds of devotees from nearby villages, who thronged the temple to see the annual festival were injured in the accident.

Police and a team of fire and rescue services personnel rushed to the spot and evacuated people trapped in the debris of the collapsed buildings.Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has directed the officials for conduction of thorough probe into unfortunate accident.

Heath Minister VS Shivkumar said all arrangements have been done for providing better health care for all the injured brought to the hospitals.

The Kollam District Collector said there was no official permission given to the temple authorities for conducting a display of fireworks at this temple.

According to the sources, a section of people residing near the temple and in the area were against conducting display of fireworks competition in connection with the temple festival.Police said a spark from a firework caused the massive explosions.