Catastrophe Strikes During Temple Theyyam Ritual: Blast Leaves Over 150 Injured

During the Theyyam ritual at the Veerarkavu Temple, a devastating explosion occurred, injuring over 150 people, including eight seriously. Disturbing footage depicted chaos as attendees fled from the blaze. Preliminary investigations reveal safety lapses in the proximity of the fireworks storage facility, with no official permissions obtained.

A devastating explosion disrupted the Theyyam ritual at the Veerarkavu Temple, leaving attendees in shock. Over 150 people sustained injuries due to the explosion, which occurred just before midnight near Neeleswaram.

Televised footage showed the panic and desperation as the crowd fled from the site where ritualistic festivities were underway. Eyewitnesses recounted the thunderous burst, followed by a ball of fire and smoke that caused a stampede.

Initial findings by authorities indicate that the fireworks storage facility was in close proximity to where the crackers were being ignited, violating safety regulations. Lack of permissions and negligence in maintaining necessary distances are suspected to have contributed to the tragedy.

(With inputs from agencies.)