More than 75 people have died in a fire at Puttingal temple in Paravur in the Indian state of Kerala, police say.

The fire started about 03:30 (22:15 GMT Saturday) when an explosion was set off in a store of fireworks ready for celebrations of a local Hindu new year festival, local media reports say.

A building at the temple then collapsed, causing many of the fatalities.

More than 200 people have been injured at the temple.

Those with most serious burns injuries are being treated at the government medical college in Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital.

The impact of the blast was felt in houses up to a kilometre away.

Kerala's Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has ordered in an investigation into the accident.

"The temple holds an annual firework display every year. We're doing our best to rescue those still trapped," said Mr Chennithala.

"Now the situation is under control... the police are on the spot."

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy is due to visit the scene this morning.

The fireworks had been stored ready for celebrations on Thursday of Vishu, a Keralan festival marking the Hindu new year.

Local reports say that police had not given permission for Puttingal temple to hold the fireworks display.

Fireworks and firecrackers are commonly used at temple festivals and other public events and accidents are not uncommon.

(BBC)