Subhechcha Ganguly 
Kerala Police have arrested two individuals linked to a catastrophic fireworks accident during the Anjootambalam Veererkavu Temple festival in Nileshwaram early Tuesday morning. The incident resulted in 154 injuries, many of which were severe.
Authorities have attributed the disaster to negligence by temple officials, prompting the arrests. The police are currently questioning the detained individuals to gather more information about the events leading up to the accident.
Witnesses reported chaos as fireworks malfunctioned, causing widespread panic and injuries among festival-goers. The local community is now grappling with the aftermath of the incident, as investigations continue to determine the full scope of responsibility and ensure safety in future events.
As the situation unfolds, calls for stricter safety regulations regarding public fireworks displays are growing louder, emphasizing the need for accountability and preventive measures to avoid such tragedies in the future.Kasargod District Superintendent of Police D. Shilpa revealed that temple officials neglected safety protocols and failed to secure necessary permissions for the fireworks display, which led to a devastating accident during the Anjootambalam Veererkavu Temple festival. District Collector K. Inbasekar confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the extent of procedural violations.
Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing moments as sparks from a firework fell into a storage room containing additional fireworks, valued at approximately Rs25,000, intended for the festival’s grand finale. One injured girl described the chaos that ensued when the sparks ignited the stored fireworks, resulting in a powerful explosion that left many in shock and distress.
As authorities continue their probe, the community is calling for accountability and enhanced safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
