Over 90 killed, 350 injured in Kerala temple fire; Navy, IAF helps in rescue operations
The fire mishap at the Puttingal Devi Temple in Kerala's Kollam district during a display of fireworks has left more than 90 people dead and 350 others injured, according to the Home Ministry.
migrator
New Delhi
The fire broke out due to explosion of crackers at the temple, a Home Ministry spokesperson said.
The spokesperson said more than 90 people were killed in the mishap and 350 others injured.
State police, state disaster management teams and fire brigade are on the spot for rescue and relief operations.
Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and assured all central help to deal with the situation arising out of the tragedy.
National Disaster Response Force is being sent to Kerala to assist the local administration.
"My heartfelt condolences to the families of those who died in the Kollam mishap. My prayers are with the injured," Singh said.
Navy and IAF steps in
The Indian Navy and the IAF have deployed six helicopters and one Dornier aircraft to help in rescue operations.
The IAF has deployed four choppers including Mi17 and Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH).
The Indian Navy is deploying one Dornier and two ALH with medical teams from the southern naval command.
It has also deputed three Naval ships - INS Kabra, Kalpeni and INS Sukanya with medical stores to Kollam coast to give medical assistance to the injured.
They will be deployed in consultation with local administrative authorities, a Navy spokesperson said.
Surgical teams have also been put on standby at the Naval command hospital in Kochi.
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