Petrol Pump Staffer Killed as Old Fuel Tank Explodes During Dismantling in Baleshwar
Baleshwar: A tragic accident claimed the life of a petrol pump employee after an abandoned underground fuel storage tank exploded during dismantling work at a petrol pump in Odisha’s Baleshwar district on Wednesday.
The incident occurred at a petrol station in the Baligohiri area under Nilagiri town limits.
According to reports, three labourers from Kolkata were engaged in cutting and dismantling an old underground oil tank when a sudden fire triggered a powerful explosion.
The blast sent the metal lid of the tank flying through the air, striking a petrol pump staff member identified as Birendra Singh, a resident of Bimuria village under Remuna block.
He sustained severe injuries and died on the spot.
Following the explosion, panic gripped the locality as locals gathered at the scene. Residents staged protests demanding justice for the deceased and accountability for the incident.
Police personnel from Nilagiri police station rushed to the spot and initiated an investigation.
Authorities have detained petrol pump owner Dipti Kanta Mohapatra, manager Kamalalochan Nayak, and two workers for questioning as part of the probe.
Officials are examining whether safety protocols were followed during the dismantling process and what led to the ignition inside the abandoned fuel tank.
Further investigation is underway.
