Kerala temple fireworks accident injures over 154 people.
Kasargod MP Rajmohan Unnithan reported that the unfortunate incident occurred shortly after midnight during a festival celebration. Firecrackers were being burst in the temple to mark the occasion when the accident happened, resulting in a large number of injuries. The chaotic scene unfolded as revelers participated in the traditional festivities, which are often accompanied by fireworks. Unnithan expressed his concern for those affected by the mishap and emphasized the need for safety measures during such events. The incident has sparked discussions about the regulation of firecracker displays at public celebrations, highlighting the potential dangers associated with large-scale fireworks.
In a tragic incident that unfolded at the Anjootambalam Veererkavu Temple in Nileshwaram, Kerala’s Kasaragod district, at least 154 people have sustained injuries due to a fireworks accident that occurred shortly after midnight during the traditional Theyyam festival. Among the injured, eight individuals are reported to be in serious condition, while one person is in critical condition.
The festival, which attracts significant crowds, saw more than 1,500 attendees gathered at the temple for the celebration. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the accident was triggered when sparks from the fireworks being set off ignited additional fireworks that had been improperly stored in a nearby room. The chaos that ensued not only resulted in injuries from the fire but also a subsequent stampede as people rushed to escape the dangerous situation.
Local authorities reported that 97 individuals have been admitted to various hospitals for treatment, with several suffering from burns and injuries sustained during the stampede. The scene was chaotic, with many festival-goers panicking as they attempted to flee the area. One young girl, who was present during the incident, described the terrifying moments as sparks from the fireworks fell into the storage room. My sister escaped unhurt.” Her testimony reflects the fear and confusion that gripped the attendees as they scrambled for safety.
The temple authorities had reportedly stored small-intensity fireworks valued at around ₹25,000 for the festival, which is set to conclude on Tuesday night. Local CPI-M MLA M. Rajagopal expressed his sorrow over the incident, labeling it “very unfortunate.” He spoke with District Collector Nileshwar to discuss the situation, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation. Rajagopal noted, “The crackers were of low intensity, and the incident occurred when the sparks of the firecrackers fell into the place where more crackers were stored,” highlighting the lack of adequate safety measures in place during the celebrations.
In response to the incident, Kasargod MP Rajmohan Unnithan stated that the fireworks were being burst as part of the festival celebrations when the accident took place. The local police have initiated an investigation into the incident, leading to the arrest of two members of the temple committee. Reports suggest that the temple authorities may have neglected to obtain the mandatory license required for the use of fireworks, raising questions about compliance with safety regulations.
As the investigation unfolds, it remains crucial for local authorities to assess the circumstances surrounding the accident and determine whether negligence contributed to the injuries sustained by festival-goers. The incident has ignited discussions about the safety protocols surrounding public celebrations, particularly those involving fireworks, which can pose significant risks if not handled properly.
In the aftermath of this tragic event, there is a growing call for stricter enforcement of safety regulations to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Authorities are expected to conduct a comprehensive review of safety practices at festivals across the state to ensure that proper protocols are adhered to and that the safety of attendees is prioritized.
As families and friends await updates on the health of the injured, the community grapples with the aftermath of the disaster, reflecting on the urgent need for vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines during public celebrations. The focus now shifts to supporting those affected while ensuring that such tragedies do not happen again.