NEW DELHI — A massive fire broke out Saturday at an amusement park in the western Indian state of Gujarat, killing at least 22 people, including several children, police said.
A fire broke out in a park in Rajkot city. Police commissioner Raju Bhargava said the fire was under control and rescue operations were underway.
Vinayak Patel, a police officer, confirmed the death of 22 people in the fire. New Delhi Television news channel put the death toll at 27.
Mr. Patel said the bodies were charred and difficult to identify.
The park is often crowded on weekends, with families with children enjoying their summer school break.
Footage shows firefighters clearing debris around collapsed metal-roofed structures that news media said were used for bowling, go-kart racing and tarpaulin attractions spring.
The amusement park is privately owned by Yuvraj Singh Solanki. Mr Bhargava said he would be charged with negligence.
“We will deal with the negligence and the deaths that occurred,” Mr. Bhargava said. “Further investigation will take place once we complete the rescue operation.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X that he was “extremely saddened by the fire” in Rajkot. “My thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones. Please pray for the injured,” he wrote.
Fires are common in India, where builders and residents often flout building laws and safety rules.
