Kerala temple fire- Building collapse caused most casualties

Kollam, April 10: The collapse of the temple administration building caused the most casualties officials in Kerala say.

Officials say that the death toll may mount to 102 and the number of persons injured is 350. A major fire broke out at 3.30 am today due to an explosion caused during a fireworks display at the Puttingal temple in Paravur, Kerala.

Preliminary investigations show that as a result of the fire the administrative building of the temple collapsed and this caused a lot of casualties.

There were nearly 10,000 people at the temple when the incident occurred. Rescue operations continue at the temple and there have been 8 choppers which have been pressed into service.

Meanwhile, a case has been registered against the temple authorities for alleged violations. Allegations that the fireworks display took place despite the Deputy Commissioner of Kollam issuing prohibitory orders have been made.

The state government has constituted a high level probe committee into the incident.

OneIndia News