At least 105 people have been killed after an unexpected fire blast occurred during the ‘Meena Bharani’ celebrations on April 10 at the Puttingal Temple, Kollam.
As per a TOI report, more than 300 people are undergoing treatment at Kollam District Hospital and Trivandrum Medical College. Saji Sebastian, a Civil Police Officer, was also killed in the mishap.
Unfortunately, the death toll is increasing as time passes by, as most of the injured who are admitted in hospitals have suffered severe internal burns.
The particular type of fire competition called ‘Kamba Kettu’ was organized in this temple, and there was no permission from District Collector to conduct the event. The devastating damage has happened, as temple authorities gave preference to feudal competition than law.
The fireworks started at 12.00 AM, and it ran through 03.30 PM, and at the time of conclusion, sparks emanated from a cracker ignited the explosive store room which finally resulted in mass destruction.
During blast time, more than a thousand people were present in the temple vicinity. Soon after the fire, the power supply went off in and around the temple, and it severely affected the rescue operations.
Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi has already rushed to Puttingal Temple, and according to reports, he will reach the spot by 03.30 PM.
Unofficial reports state that Central Government will give 5 lakh INR as compensation for the deceased’s family members.
Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister of Kerala, told that the mishap is shocking, and the State Government will provide free treatment for all the injured ones.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nKAdDnwU5g
BJP Leader, Mr. O Rajagopalan told the press that judiciary inquiry is needed to unravel the mystery surrounding the mishap.
As per Rajagopalan, despite pressure from local law enforcing authorities, it is authoritative bodies from Trivandrum which gave the courage for temple bodies to organize the competition.
Former Defense Minister, A K Anthony along with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will visit the affected place soon.
