Over 150 people were injured, including eight with severe burns, after a fireworks accident during a temple festival at Veerarkavu Temple near Neeleswaram, Kerala, late on Monday. The injured were transported to hospitals in Kasargod, Kannur, and Mangaluru, local authorities reported
The accident occurred around midnight, with police suspecting that the blaze was ignited by fireworks stored close to where the display was held. “Initial findings indicate that the fireworks storage facility was located dangerously close to the bursting area, and safety protocols were not adhered to,” stated the District Collector. The injured who are critically hurt have suffered burns covering up to 80% of their bodies, he confirmed.
An investigation is underway, with samples collected from the site to determine the exact cause of the explosion. Authorities disclosed that the organizers failed to secure necessary permits for fireworks storage and did not meet the 100-meter distance requirement between the storage and display areas. A case has been registered following the incident.
This tragedy has raised questions over adherence to safety guidelines at temple festivals, with officials promising to examine safety protocols to prevent future accidents.
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