Diya Triggers Cylinder Explosion in Puri, 10 Injured

Puri: A major accident during festive celebrations left at least 10 people injured after a gas cylinder reportedly exploded in Odisha’s Puri district on Sunday evening.

The incident occurred in the Baliapanda area, triggering panic among residents and bystanders.

According to reports, the explosion took place at the residence of Dilip Singh.

Preliminary information suggests that a diya flame came into contact with a gas cylinder while firecrackers were being burst nearby, leading to a powerful blast.

The injured were immediately rushed to the Puri District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) for treatment.

Hospital sources indicated that seven persons sustained critical injuries and are undergoing intensive medical care.

One of the critically injured victims, Sanjeeb Sarkar, was later shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for advanced treatment.

Other seriously injured individuals include Saraswati Debnath, Loknath Biswas, Anukul Biswas, Dilip Singh, Trinath Reddy, and Jagannath Baliarsingh.

Following the incident, police personnel from Baliapanda and Kumbharpada police stations reached the hospital and launched an investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the explosion.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to fire and gas safety measures during festive celebrations, particularly when using open flames and fireworks in residential areas.