Pakistan offers condolences over Kerala temple tragedy

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan today expressed "deep condolences" over a massive fire tragedy at a Kerala temple that has left more than 100 people dead.

"The people and the government of Pakistan express their deep condolences on the loss of precious lives, resulting from a fire in the temple," the Foreign Office said.

"Our sympathies are with the bereaved families. We wish early recovery to all injured people," it said.

More than 100 people have died and nearly 300 injured in the major explosion and fire at the Puttingal Devi Temple complex near Kollam in Kerala.

Thousands of people had gathered near the temple for a festival and to witness the fireworks show.

The blaze erupted when sparks emanating from the fireworks display ignited a store room filled with crackers and pyrotechnic material.