Explosion Triggers Fire in House Possibly Storing Firecrackers; Investigation Underway
Kolkata, March 31:A devastating gas cylinder explosion claimed the lives of seven people, including four children and two women, in Pathar Pratima block of South 24 Parganas district in West Bengal on Monday night. The incident occurred around 9 p.m. in Dholahat village, according to officials from the Sunderban Police District.
One woman sustained injuries in the blast and was immediately rescued and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
“All the bodies have been recovered. The injured woman was rescued from the house and admitted to hospital,” confirmed Superintendent of Police Koteswara Rao.
Authorities suspect the explosion may have been exacerbated by the presence of two gas cylinders and firecrackers stored within the house. It is believed the firecrackers ignited following the initial blast, intensifying the fire.
Family Among Victims; House Possibly Used for Firecracker Storage
Initial reports suggest the victims were members of the same family. The house where the explosion took place has been completely cordoned off, and a detailed probe has been launched.“The situation is under control and the rescue operation is complete,” added Rao.
Another senior police officer mentioned that investigators are also looking into whether firecrackers were being manufactured on-site, which could explain the scale of the fire and destruction.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
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