Massive Firecracker Accident In Kasaragod: Case Registered Against Temple Authorities

In an unfortunate event, a fireworks accident in Kerala’s Kasaragod left over 150 people injured on Monday night. The accident happened during a temple festival near Neeleswaram and was caused by a fire near the fireworks storage facility adjacent to Veerarkavu Temple.

The incident happened around 12 am when a misfired cracker hit a building that stored explosives during the firework display held as part of the Moolamkuzhi Chamundi Theyyam festival at the temple. The distance between the storage facility and the place the firework was held was reportedly very close, showing the lack of safety measures from the authorities.

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Authorities, including the district police chief and collector, reached the spot and are investigating the cause of the fire. The injured have been taken to hospitals in Kannur, Kasaragod, and Mangalore. As per reports from local channels, the lack of security measures during the firework led to the tragic event, as the firework was done illegally without acquiring permission from the authorities and the police.

Police have taken cases against six people, including the temple authorities, in connection with the incident. The fireworks were done without any proper security measures in place and were not in compliance with the law. The distance between people and fireworks was only 45 meters, which was a violation of the norm that at least 200 meters should be there between the people and the fireworks during festivals.

Noting that the event was attended by around 2000 people, police also showed a lack of proactively monitoring, which could have otherwise prevented the incident, according to some people. Most of those injured were standing near the fireworks, as per reports.

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Police have arrested eight temple authorities with non-bailable offenses. The condition of five persons admitted to the Kanhangad district hospital is reportedly very critical.

Commenting on the issue, CPI(M) state secretary M. V. Govindan said that the BJP and UDF are beneficiaries of the Pooram disruption and are creating a favourable situation for the saffron party to grow.

A tragic fireworks accident at Anjootambalam Veerarkavu Temple in Kerala’s Kasaragod district has left over 150 injured, with 8 in critical condition. Strict action must be taken against committee members for not obtaining proper approval and poor safety measures. Safety cannot… pic.twitter.com/AaHlpmUKLS

— Vishnu K Sajeev (@vishnu_ksajeev) October 29, 2024