Bhubaneswar, (Orissa Today), June 1: The death toll in the Puri cracker mishap has risen to eight, following the death of another individual during treatment at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar. This information was provided by the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), who also noted that 22 patients are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals.
The Puri Collector has been directed to provide Rs 4 lakh as ex-gratia assistance to the next of kin of each deceased person, as announced by the SRC.
The incident occurred on May 29 during Chapa Khela, a water sporting event of the trinity as part of Chandan Yatra at Narendra Puskarini, where 30 people sustained burn injuries after a pile of crackers exploded. Hundreds had gathered to witness the ritual when the accident happened. The explosion occurred after a splinter from the burning crackers ignited the heap, prompting some devotees to jump into the pond to save themselves.
Initially, the injured were admitted to Puri district headquarters hospital, but those critically injured were later transferred to hospitals in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed his grief over the incident and directed officials to ensure proper treatment for the injured.
