Kochi, Kerala: A devastating explosion rocked a convention center in Kalamassery on a Sunday morning, resulting in one fatality and over 20 individuals sustaining injuries, according to local authorities. Eyewitnesses at the scene described the horrifying incident, where the initial blast occurred during a prayer session, followed by two more explosions, leaving those present in shock.
Officials from the Kalamassery police reported that the exact cause of the blast, including whether multiple explosions had occurred, was yet to be confirmed. The site of the explosion was swiftly cordoned off, and the police, along with fire rescue teams, have initiated rescue and relief efforts.
State Industries Minister P. Rajeev disclosed that some of the injured had suffered severe burns as a result of the blast. He reassured the public that Kalamassery Medical College was fully equipped with medical aid and facilities for the injured. If necessary, individuals requiring more extensive treatment could be transferred to other hospitals. At this point, information regarding the nature of the blast and potential culprits remained unknown.
Kerala Health Minister Veena George issued a call to government healthcare professionals to report for duty in response to the emergency. Witnessing the tragic incident unfold, one individual present at the center estimated that there were more than 2,000 people inside the hall when the explosion occurred.
Local law enforcement received an urgent call around 9 a.m. requesting assistance following the blast. Distressing visuals broadcast on television channels captured the immediate aftermath of the explosion, with fire rescue teams and police officers tirelessly working to evacuate people from the site. Inside the convention center, alarming images depicted multiple fires engulfing the hall, as panicked individuals and children could be heard screaming in fear.
The footage also showed brave individuals attempting to extinguish the flames as the hall lay scattered with damaged chairs. In the wake of the explosion, hundreds of people congregated outside the convention center, reflecting the shock and trauma experienced by those who bore witness to the tragic incident.
As investigations into the cause of the explosion and efforts to provide support to the injured continue, the Kalamassery community grapples with the aftermath of this heart-wrenching incident.
