SALVATIONISTS from India South Western Territory are providing practical, emotional and spiritual support to people injured in a series of explosions at a Hindu temple in Kollam, a two-hour drive from Thiruvananthapuram (formerly known as Trivandrum), the capital of Kerala state. More than 100 people lost their lives in the disaster after sparks from a firework display fell into a room storing firecrackers. The ensuing explosions and fire caused damage over a 100-metre radius.
Working in partnership with the medical superindendent, a team from territorial headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram took some basic items to 350 people who were admitted to three hospitals in Kollam and Trivandrum Medical College. Each patient was given two bed sheets, drinking water and hygiene items such as soap and a towel.
Commissioner Samuel Charan, territorial commander, reports that the visits also provided opportunity 'to express our Christian love to suffering humanity and to the needy ... to show they are not alone'.
Report by IHQ Communications
International Headquarters
