Mathura fire toll 15

However, villagers claimed that 27 people had died in the fire which engulfed several thatched houses in the area.

A magisterial probe has been ordered into the incident, Abhijat said.

The district administration has sanctioned Rs 10 lakh as relief to the victims. An ex-gratia of Rs 50,000 each has been announced to the families of those killed in the fire, an official spokesman said.

Those seriously injured would receive Rs 10,000 while Rs 2,500 would be given to those who sustained minor injuries, he said.

State Minister for PWD, Ram Prasad Kamal, visited the spot and apprised the chief minister of the situation.

The license of the diesal dealer has been suspended and a senior supply inspector has been placed under suspension in connection with the incident.