At least 27 people, including several children, tragically died on Saturday after a massive fire broke out at a busy amusement park in Gujarat, India. Reports indicate that over 300 visitors were inside the two-story TRP amusement and theme park when the fire erupted. According to Ilesh Kher, Rajkot's fire officer, a temporary structure near the entrance collapsed, severely hindering the evacuation process as the flames quickly spread due to highly flammable materials.
Emergency response teams managed to control the fire after nearly an hour of intense efforts, with a dozen ambulances rushing the injured to nearby hospitals. Video footage from the site revealed firefighters working through debris around the tin-roofed structures that housed activities such as bowling, go-karting, and trampoline rides.
Police Commissioner Raju Bhargava confirmed that a negligence case would be filed against Yuvraj Singh Solanki, the owner of the amusement park. He stated, 'We will record a crime of negligence and the deaths that have occurred. More investigations will be carried out once we complete the rescue operation.' Identification of the victims has proven challenging due to severe charring.
Bhupendra Patel, the Chief Minister of Gujarat, announced that a special investigation team has been formed to probe the incident. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who hails from Gujarat, expressed his condolences in an emotional post on X, saying, 'I am extremely pained by the incident in Rajkot. My thoughts are with all those who lost their loved ones. I pray for the wounded.'
Firefighters suspect that a short circuit might have caused the catastrophic fire. This tragic event has once again highlighted India's ongoing struggle with fire safety, exacerbated by poor building conditions, overcrowding, and lax enforcement of safety regulations. Only recently, in February, 11 people perished in a fire at a paint factory in New Delhi, and incidents such as the 2016 fireworks explosion in Kerala that claimed over 100 lives remain a harsh reminder of the risks associated with inadequate safety measures.
- In addition to the 27 confirmed dead, nine people are reported to be hospitalized following the fire. Eyewitness photos reveal the significant destruction, showing a collapsed corrugated iron structure. Authorities have arrested four individuals connected to the amusement park’s gaming area for questioning and are trying to gather more information about the ownership and management.
- Social media was flooded with images and videos of the blazing structure, with large plumes of dark smoke visible from a distance. Local officials shared that the likelihood of finding additional victims cannot be ruled out as rescue operations continue.
- This event has not only brought to light the need for stricter safety protocols in amusement parks but has also reiterated the importance of emergency preparedness and quick response. The involvement of a special investigation team indicates the gravity of the situation and underscores the administration's commitment to uncovering the causes and preventing future occurrences.
