A tragic accident during the Moolamkuzhi Chamundi Theyyam festival at the Veerarkavu Temple in Neeleswaram, Kasaragod district, resulted in over 150 injuries, with eight individuals in critical condition. The incident occurred around midnight on Monday when a misfired firecracker struck a building storing explosives, setting off a massive blast. The explosion injured numerous bystanders, including women and children gathered for the festival.
Emergency teams transported the injured to various hospitals in Kasaragod, Kannur, and Mangaluru. Kanhangad District Hospital admitted 33 individuals, five of whom are in critical condition. Other victims are being treated at facilities including Aishal Hospital, Arimala Hospital, and Sanjeevani Hospital. Authorities confirmed that additional patients were sent to Nileshwar Taluk Hospital and Aster MIMS in Kannur, with some receiving specialized care at the Government Medical College Hospital in Pariyaram.
#Kasargod Firecracker room caught fire at veerakaav temple https://t.co/3tqCteOJXf pic.twitter.com/4TU0dkLZOb
— 𝖆𝖓𝖚𝖕 (@anupr3) October 28, 2024
Local officials, including the district collector and police chief, have reached the site and initiated an investigation into the cause of the blast. Early reports suggest that the explosion was triggered by fireworks stored for the festival’s pyrotechnic display. Rescue efforts are ongoing as authorities work to stabilize the critically injured.
The Theyyam festival, a traditional celebration in Kerala, typically draws large crowds, and this tragic incident has deeply shaken the local community. Many residents have come together to offer support to the victims and their families as investigations continue to uncover further details.(Inputs from agencies)
Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N
