A devastating fire tore through a crowded amusement park in India, claiming the lives of 27 individuals, including four young children, as rescuers combed through the site in the aftermath of the blaze.
Reports from survivors recounted harrowing tales of having to forcibly break down doors and leap from windows to escape the inferno that engulfed the facility in Rajkot, located in the western state of Gujarat.
Bodies, draped in white cloths, were laid out at the center as authorities struggled to identify the victims, many of whom were severely burned.
The tragedy unfolded during a busy summer holiday weekend, with over 300 people present at the TRP amusement and theme park when the fire erupted on Saturday evening. Fire officials cited a collapse of a temporary structure near the entrance as a factor hindering escape efforts.
The highly flammable materials used in the structure exacerbated the spread of the flames, leading to a rapid escalation of the situation.
Senior police officers confirmed the death toll of 27, acknowledging the difficulty in identification due to the extent of the burns. There were concerns that the number of casualties could increase further.
Survivors recounted the chaos and panic as they attempted to flee the blaze, with some resorting to drastic measures like breaking through tin sheets to escape from the upper floor.
The amusement park, advertised on an Instagram page, offered various recreational activities including trampolining, go-karting, bowling, and paintball.
Authorities have detained at least four individuals for questioning as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep distress over the incident, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures in such establishments.
The tragic event underscores ongoing challenges in India regarding poor building standards, overcrowding, and lax enforcement of safety regulations, contributing to frequent fire incidents.