Fire breaks out at amusement park in India, killing at least 47 people including children

 

The cause of the fire in Rajkot in Gujarat state is being investigated, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying he is "extremely distressed" by the blaze.

A huge fire at an amusement park in western India has killed at least 47 people including children.

The blaze happened in the city of Rajkot in the Gujarat state, with the cause of the fire being investigated.

Flames were seen engulfing the site and thick clouds of smoke rose into the sky.

Police officer Vinayak Patel said 47 people are confirmed to have died, including four children under the age of 12.

A police official at the local civil hospital said some of the bodies were charred beyond recognition.

The park is usually packed with families with children enjoying the school summer holiday over the weekend.

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

Police Commissioner Raju Bhargava said the flames were now under control and a case of negligence would be filed against the owner of the park.

The city's mayor Nayana Pedhadiya also vowed that action would be taken.

He said: "Our focus is on rescue operations and saving lives. We will ensure strict action is taken against the people who are responsible for this incident."

The cause of the fire is not yet confirmed, the district's chief fire officer said.