In Karnataka, 14 people were charred to death in a major fire at a cracker shop-cum-godown at Attibele yesterday. The place is about 10 km from Hosur in Tamil Nadu. All the victims hailed from Tamil Nadu.
There were around 35 people working at the godown on the service road along Hosur Main Road when the fire broke out at 3.30 p.m. Four people, including the shop’s owner, sustained burns.
At least six vehicles, including a truck, loaded with crackers were destroyed in the blaze. The fire broke out as crackers were being unloaded from a truck that arrived at the accident spot. Nine fire tenders were pressed into service. Fire personnel managed to put out the fire only around 8.30 p.m.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has said that action will be initiated against the owner of the godown. Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar said a detailed inquiry will be held. He announced a solatium of five lakh rupees to the family of the deceased. The DG and IGP of Police Alok Mohan has said that they have arrested the owner of the godown and his son and charges filed against five persons.
