Fire at entertainment venue kills at least 24 people in western India

26/5/2024 6:16

        At least 24 people, including many children, died in a fire that broke out on Saturday evening in a family entertainment venue in the western Indian state of Gujarat, a government official said.
        
        With rescue efforts continuing at the scene in the Rajkot district, the local mayor told Reuters the death toll was expected to rise.
        
        "Our focus is on rescue operations and saving lives. We will ensure strict action is taken against the people who are responsible for this incident," Mayor Nayana Pedhadiya said.
        
        Television images showed a massive fire engulfing the TRP game zone and thick clouds of smoke emanating from the site. The entire structure was gutted in the blaze.
        
        A police official at the local civil hospital said some of the bodies were charred beyond recognition.
        
        Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on social media platform X that the local administration was working to provide assistance to those affected.