Ghaziabad (Uttar Pradesh) (India), January 3 (ANI): At least 17 people lost their lives and 38 were injured when the roof of a crematorium collapsed in Muradnagar on Sunday. A National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team has reached the spot and rescue operations are underway.

“Seventeen people have died and 38 rescued so far after a shed collapsed in Muradnagar. We have started an inquiry and will take strict action against those found guilty,” Anita C. Meshram, divisional commissioner of Meerut, told reporters.

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister took note of the incident. “I have directed district officials to conduct relief operations and file an incident report. All possible assistance will be provided to those affected by the incident,” he said.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh extended his condolences to the family of the deceased in the incident. “Deeply saddened to hear of loss of life when the roof of the crematorium collapsed at Muradnagar, Ghaziabad. In this hour of mourning, I offer my condolences to the families of the deceased and also wish a speedy recovery to those injured in the accident,” the defence minister said in a tweet.

According to witnesses, the victims went to the crematorium to perform the last rites for their loved ones.

BJP MP VK Singh, MLA Ajit Pal Tyagi and Uttar Pradesh Minister Atul Garg also reached the spot. (ANI)