A devastating explosion took place on Wednesday evening when a large stockpile of firecrackers, stored in preparation for the Chapa Khela festival during the Chandan Yatra, unexpectedly ignited. The incident, which occurred in Odisha’s Puri town, saw an alarming increase in the death toll by Saturday.
Initially, the explosion caused severe injuries, but tragically, five more individuals succumbed to their burns, bringing the total number of fatalities to eight. This tragic event has shocked the local community and raised concerns about the safety measures in place for such celebrations.
Puri Superintendent of Police (SP) Pinak Mishra reported that among the five individuals who died today, two were minors. “Nearly all of the victims sustained burn injuries ranging from 80 to 100 percent. The doctors initially placed them in the ICU and then on ventilators. Unfortunately, their condition deteriorated.”
He also mentioned that 22 others are currently receiving medical treatment in various hospitals located in Puri, Bhubaneswar, and Cuttack.
“Some youths were bursting the crackers one after another when one cracker split off and landed on the pile of firecrackers, triggering a blast. Many people, including a few children standing nearby, sustained severe burn injuries in the explosion. Sparkles from exploded crackers fell on devotees who had gathered there to watch the celebration in the holy pond. Many of them jumped into the pond in desperation,” said the Puri SP.
Tragically, hours after the incident, three of the injured succumbed to their burn injuries.
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has directed a comprehensive inquiry into the tragic incident. In addition, he has announced that an ex-gratia amount of ₹4 lakh will be provided to each of the next of kin of the deceased, ensuring financial support for the affected families.
“Two more people succumbed to their injuries in hospitals, while 22 others are undergoing treatment,” he stated, noting that a few people remain in critical condition. Satyabrata Sahu, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department has initiated an investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, the Puri Police have registered a Suo motu criminal case and are currently conducting their investigation.
