Nileshwar fire accident: Kerala govt to cover hospital bills for victims

Thiruvananthapuram: A day after a fireworks accident injured around 150 people at the Anjootambalam Veerarkavu Temple in Nileshwaram, Kasaragod, the Kerala government has pledged to cover the hospital bills of those affected. This decision was reached during a weekly cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Fireworks mishap details

The fire incident occurred after midnight on Monday when a spark from a firecracker ignited a room containing fireworks worth approximately Rs 25,000. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a fireball emerge from the room, prompting over 1,500 attendees at the temple’s 'Theyyam' ritual to flee in panic.

Of the injured, one person remains in serious condition, while eight others are also reported as serious. A total of 97 individuals were admitted to various hospitals in Kasargod, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Mangalore. As of Tuesday, the condition of those in serious condition is under continuous monitoring.

Investigation underway

In the aftermath of the incident, local police detained two temple officials and the individual responsible for lighting the firecracker for questioning. Kasargod District Superintendent of Police (SP) D. Shilpa stated that the temple authorities failed to comply with essential safety protocols and did not have the necessary permissions to conduct the event.

Forensic samples have been collected from the site of the accident for examination. In light of the incident, the temple authorities have decided to suspend the celebrations associated with the festival until further notice.

IANS inputs