Kerala blasts: Two killed, 52 injured, NSG, NIA deployed in affected areas

Kerala blasts: Two people were killed while 52 others got injured after multiple explosions rocked a convention center in Kalamassery area of Kerala's Kochi on Sunday. Kalamassery CI Vibin Das said the first explosion took place around 9:00 am and multiple blasts followed thereafter, over the next hour.

Fifty-three-year-old Kumari, a native of Thodupuzha in Idukki district of the state, succumbed to the grievous burns suffered in the incident, the minister said. One person died on the spot in the incident, which occurred in the morning, and 52 others were injured.

The treatment of around 18 people is underway in the ICU. Around 7 people suffered 90 per cent burn injuries. 

Kerala CM on blasts:

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan said, “What happened in Kalamassery is very unfortunate. Currently, 41 people are hospitalised, 27 people admitted in Ernakulam Medical College. 4 people discharged. 2 people have died, and 5 are critical. A special team led by ADGP Law and Order will be investigating this incident. 20 members will be in the investigating team. An all-party-meeting has been called for tomorrow."

A church program was underway at the convention center. Eyewitnesses have stated that three explosions was heard in the area. A high alert has been issued in the entire state following the blast. Meanwhile, the reasons for the blast are not yet known, police are investigating.

Kerala CM condoles the death

Speaking about the incident, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said, "It's a very unfortunate incident. We are collecting details regarding the incident. All top officials are there in Ernakulam. DGP is moving to the spot. We are taking it very seriously. I have spoken to DGP. We need to get more details after the investigation."

Amit Shah speaks to CM Vijayan, instructs NIA, NSG to reach spot

Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and took stock of the situation in the state after a bomb explosion took place at a convention centre. He also instructed the NIA and the NSG to reach on the spot and start an inquiry into the incident.

Health Minister directs hospitals to provide best medical support 

Meanwhile, Kerala Health Minister Veena George directed the Director of the Health Department and the Director of the Medical Education Department to provide the best treatment to those injured in the Kalamasery explosion.

The minister directed all health workers, including doctors, who are on leave to return immediately. "Instructions were also given to prepare additional facilities at Kalamassery Medical College, Ernakulam General Hospital and Kottayam Medical College," Kerala Health Minister.

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