Deadly fireworks: Massive blaze erupts after fireworks disaster in south India temple (Video)

A pyrotechnic disaster at a Hindu temple sparked a massive fire in one of the worst fireworks-related tragedies in southern India on Sunday.

The Times of India reports that religious festivities at the Puttingal Devi Temple in Kollam, Kerala drew a crowd of around 15,000 early on April 10.
Temple goers had gathered for a fireworks display which started around midnight. The fireworks show was carried out despite being denied approval by local authorities due to safety issues, and concerns from local residents.

The blaze started around 3:30 a.m., when a stray piece from the display landed in a concrete structure that served as storage for the fireworks.

Sparks set off the pyrotechnics, which included an estimated 50 tons of gunpowder and other explosives. Among the explosive compounds were potassium chloride and ammonium nitrate.

The resulting explosion created an inferno that tore through the complex, destroying nearby structures and sending concrete flying through the air. At least 106 people have been reported killed in the incident. Another 383 were injured and sent to hospital, according to the New York Times.

The force of the blast was felt as far as 50 feet away, and collapsed power lines and damaged buildings.

The Hindu reports that police in Kerala have started a criminal investigation into the incident, opening a case against temple officials and the fireworks contractor.

Credit: TomoWorld