At least 20 dead in fire at amusement park in western India, police say

Rescuers carry the bodies of a person killed in a fire that broke out at an amusement park, in Rajkot, in the Indian state of Gujarat, Saturday, May 25, 2024. A massive fire broke out on Saturday in a amusement park in western India, killing more than ten people and injuring a few others, according to media reports. (AP Photo/Chirag Chotaliya)

NEW DELHI — A massive fire broke out at an amusement park in the western Indian state of Gujarat on Saturday, killing at least 20 people, police said.

The fire broke out in a park in the city of Rajkot, in the state of Gujarat. Superintendent of Police Raju Bhargava said the fire was brought under control and rescue operation was underway and 20 bodies were recovered.

The park is usually full of families with children enjoying the summer school holidays on the weekends.

Footage shows firefighters clearing debris around collapsed tin roof structures which media reports said were used for bowling, go-karting and trampoline attractions.

The amusement park was owned by Yuvraj Singh Solanki and Bhargava said the police would file a case of negligence against him.

“We will register an offense for negligence and for the deaths that occurred. Further investigation will take place once we complete the rescue operation,” he said.

The investigation is looking into the causes of the fire.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X that he was “extremely distressed by the fire…in Rajkot.” My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. Prayers for the injured.

Fires are common in India, where builders and residents often flout building laws and safety codes.