Hyderabad: A man identified as Chiran, allegedly in a drunken state, was arrested on Saturday evening after setting off a fire at a petrol pump in Hyderabad’s Nacharam area. The incident occurred around 7 pm, causing panic among the crowd present.
---Advertisement---
---Advertisement---
Employee’s Challenge Triggers Dangerous Fire
According to officials, Chiran arrived at the petrol pump visibly intoxicated and holding a cigarette lighter. Arun, an employee at the station, noticed the lighter and questioned whether Chiran intended to light it. Reports indicate that Arun challenged Chiran, provoking him to light the device if he “had the guts.” Taking the dare, Chiran ignited the lighter as fuel was being dispensed into a scooter, causing an immediate burst of flames.
Also Read: Cyclone Dana Triggers Flash Flooding In Odisha, Causes Waterlogging In Parts Of Bengal
Close Call Captured on CCTV Footage
At the time of the incident, 10 to 11 people, including employees, were present at the petrol pump. CCTV footage shows the frightening moment when a woman and child standing nearby narrowly escaped as the fire broke out, while others ran to safety amidst the sudden chaos.
Arrests and Potentially Catastrophic Consequences
Both Chiran and Arun were detained by the police and charged with “mischief by fire and explosives.” Inspector G. Rudvir Kumar from Nacharam Police expressed concern over the severity of the incident, highlighting that such a reckless act could have led to a massive explosion in the densely crowded area.
The accused, both originally from Bihar, will be presented in court for further proceedings.