Explosion at Cochin shipyard kills 5

At least five people were killed on Tuesday in a fire incident due to an explosion at Cochin shipyard.

The blast took place in an under repair Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) drilling ship, which was in dry docks.

At least three persons were also injured in the incident.

After explosion, police and Naval fire tenders immediately rushed to the yard to douse the fire.

At the time of filing this report, the fire was under control.

Nitin Gadkari, the Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development Ganga Rejuvenation, Government of India has expressed his condolences for the deceased.

"Shocked by the unfortunate blast at Cochin Shipyard where 4 people have died. My heartfelt condolences to bereaved families. I have spoken to MD, Cochin Shipyard n asked him to provide all necessary medical support to victims to initiate an immediate inquiry with help of concerned agencies (sic)," Gadkari tweeted.

--ANI