Death toll in tragic temple fire at Puttingal temple in Kollam district of Kerala early Sunday morning has crossed 100. As per reports, more than 200 people have been injured and admitted to various hospitals.
As per initial reports, the fire broke out due to the explosion of crackers at the temple.
Authorities have doused the fire but the damage was extensive.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the tragedy as ‘heart rending’. Prime Minister Modi would be visiting the accident spot in Kerala to take stock of the situation.
He also directed the official not to observe any formalities during his visit lest it affected the relief work.
Prime Minister also announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs. 2 lakhs from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for next of kin of each victims who lost their lives in the fire in Kollam. Rs. 50 thousand will be provided to burn victims.
Prime Minister is rushing to Kerala to take stock stock of the situation.
He said, he spoke to Chief Minister Oommen Chandy about the accident and asked him to arrange immediate shifting of those critically injured via helicopter.
In a series of tweets home minister Rajnath Singh the news of major fire at Puttingal temple in Kollam was deeply distressing.
Home Minister said: “Spoke to Kerala CM Sh.Chandy regarding the Kollam accident who apprised me of the situation. Assured him of all possible help from the Centre.”
President, Vice President, Congress leaders Sonia and Rahul Gandhi and other top leaders of the country have expressed grief and shock over the tragic fire accident in Kollam district of Kerala.
