NEW DELHI — A massive fire at an amusement park in the western Indian state of Gujarat killed at least 22 people, including several children, on Saturday, police said.
The fire broke out in a park in the city of Rajkot. Police Commissioner Raju Bhargava said the fire has been brought under control and rescue operations are underway.
Police officer Vinayak Patel confirmed that the fire had killed 22 people. New Delhi TV news channel reported the death toll at 27.
Mr Patel said the body was so burnt that it was difficult to identify.
On weekends, the park is usually packed with families with children, enjoying the summer break from school.
The footage showed firefighters clearing debris around the collapsed tin-roofed buildings, which news outlets reported had been used as bowling, go-kart and trampoline facilities.
The amusement park is privately owned by Yuvraj Singh Solanki. Mr Bhargava said a case of negligence would be filed against him.
“We will register a case of negligence and causing loss of life,” Mr. Bhargava said. “Once we complete the rescue operation, we will conduct further investigation.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on Twitter that he was “deeply saddened” by the fire in Rajkot. “My thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones. Praying for the injured,” he wrote.
Fires are common in India because builders and residents often violate building codes and safety norms.
