At least 27 people, including many children, died after a fire broke out Saturday night at a family entertainment venue in Gujarat, India, a government official said.
According ReutersRescue work continued at the accident site in Rajkot district.
“Our focus is on rescue operations and saving lives. We will ensure that strict action is taken against the people responsible for this incident,” said Mayor Nayana Pedhadiya.
Television images showed a massive fire engulfing the TRP playing area and thick clouds of smoke emanating from the venue.
A police officer at the local civil hospital said some of the bodies were charred beyond recognition.
In a post on social media platform X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the local administration was working to provide assistance to those affected.
“Extremely distressed by the fire in Rajkot. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones,” Modi said in the post.
“The cause of the fire has not yet been determined,” said district fire chief IV Kher. Reuters.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said an investigation into the incident had been handed over to a Special Investigation Team, and television reports said Rajkot police had detained two people in connection with the incident.
