Report: 80 Indians Dead in Temple Fire

A huge fire broke out at Puttingal temple at Paravaur (Kollam District), Kerala early Sunday morning leaving at least eighty dead and over a hundred injured, local media said quoting police officials. The fire took place at around 3.30 am this morning.

According to reports, the fire could have been caused due to a blast in the firework stockpile, readied for the temple celebrations. The police had earlier warned temple authorities to restrict usage of fireworks.

A building at the temple then collapsed, causing many of the fatalities.

More than 200 people have been injured at the temple.

Those with most serious burns injuries are being treated at the government medical college in Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital.

The impact of the blast was felt in houses up to a kilometre away.

Kerala's Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has ordered in an investigation into the accident.

"The temple holds an annual firework display every year. We're doing our best to rescue those still trapped," said Mr Chennithala.

"Now the situation is under control... the police are on the spot."

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy is due to visit the scene this morning.

The fireworks had been stored ready for celebrations on Thursday of Vishu, a Keralan festival marking the Hindu new year.

Local reports say that police had not given permission for Puttingal temple to hold the fireworks display.

Fireworks and firecrackers are commonly used at temple festivals and other public events and accidents are not uncommon.