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'Extremely distressed': Children among dozens killed in fire at Indian amusement park

A police investigation is underway after a massive fire in an amusement park in Rajkot, western India, killed at least 27 people, including four children.

The ruins of a building after a fire with firetrucks in front of it

A fire broke out on Saturday at an amusement park in Rajkot, in the Indian state of Gujarat. Source: AAP / Chirag Chotaliya/AP

A massive fire in an amusement park in Gujarat state in western India has left at least 27 people dead including four children under the age of 12.

The background: The fire erupted at the park in the city of Rajkot in Gujarat state.

Police said the fire was under control and the rescue operation underway with 27 bodies recovered.

It was difficult to identify the bodies, police said.

The park is usually packed with families, with children enjoying the school summer holidays over the weekend.

Key quote: "Extremely distressed by the fire mishap in Rajkot. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. Prayers for the injured." — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi
What else to know: The cause of the fire is under investigation. Footage showed firefighters clearing debris around collapsed tin roof structures that media reports said were used for bowling, go-karting and trampoline attractions.

What happens next: Police said they had detained the owner and the manager of the amusement park for questioning as they launched an investigation into the cause of the fire.

They said they will file a case of negligence against the owner.

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Published 26 May 2024 7:42am
Source: AAP, SBS


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