In a dismal accident, a 10-year-old boy lost his life while nine others were injured as a cylinder exploded in Central Bengaluru’s Wilson Garden this morning. The explosive impact of the cylinder led to the devastation of six houses. The explosion took place in a tightly packed area, and several houses in close proximity to the blast sustained damage. The injured were taken to a hospital, and the rescue operation is still ongoing.
Police suspect a cylinder gas leak to have caused the blast, but Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh said it is too early to ascertain the exact cause, as per NDTV.
The house in which the explosion took place was inhabited by a family of three, the police commissioner said. The wife and children sustained injuries when the cylinder exploded while the man was out at work. The death was reported from a neighbouring house.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah visited the blast site later in the day and expressed condolences to the victim’s family. “A boy named Mubarak had died. There is information that no other people have been injured in the said blast. Currently, treatment is being given to everyone; all have been admitted to the hospital and are receiving treatment,” said the chief minister.
To further assist the victims, he announced a Rs 5 lakh financial assistance for the victim’s family. In addition, the cost of treatment for the injured will be borne by the government, he said.
The call regarding the cylinder blast was made at around 8:30 AM. Soon after, the Bomb Disposal Squad, Anti-Terrorism Squad, State Disaster Response Force, and fire brigade reached the area. The police have launched an investigation into the matter, are clearing the debris, aiding the locals, and leading the probe further.
