In Kerala, 1 person was killed and 6 others injured when crackers stored in a building at Varapuzha in Kochi caught fire and exploded this evening.<br />''<br />''The building where the crackers were kept was completely destroyed in the impact of the blast. Several houses in the vicinity were also damaged. The mishap occurred in a highly populated area.<br />''<br />''Initial reports said those injured in the blast included 3 children. The condition of 1 person is said to be serious.<br />''<br />''<span style="color: #222222;">Nearly 8 fire tenders have been pressed into service, and efforts are on to bring the fire under control.</span>