Festive fervour turned into horror on Friday night when five young children suffered severe burn injuries after a generator caught fire and triggered a blaze during a Ganesh idol immersion procession at Pratapapur in the Purushottampur area of Ganjam district.
Overheating Generator Ignites Petrol Container
The terrifying incident occurred while local residents were carrying out the immersion procession with music and lights powered by a tractor-mounted generator.
According to eyewitnesses and police reports, intense heat caused the running generator to burst into flames. The fire rapidly spread to a nearby container filled with petrol kept on the vehicle, triggering a sudden, fierce blaze.
Five young children who were sitting close to the generator on the tractor to watch the vibrant procession were caught directly in the flash fire.
Victims Identified and Shifted to MKCG
The victims, all hailing from Sitarampur Agraharam Sahi, have been identified as:
- Itishree Nayak (4)
- Bikash Nayak (5)
- Rahari Nayak (7)
- Bhumi Nayak (8)
- Suhani Nayak (11)
Alarmed bystanders rushed to douse the flames and rescue the screaming children. The injured minors were immediately taken to the local Ayushman Arogya Mandir for emergency first aid.
However, given the critical nature of their burn injuries, medical staff promptly referred all five children to the MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur for specialised medical treatment.
Officials Monitor Situation
Upon receiving information about the tragic mishap, the Purushottampur Tehsildar rushed to the medical facility to inspect the ongoing treatment arrangements and ensure the victims receive immediate and optimal care.
Local authorities have launched an inquiry into the circumstances leading up to the accident, specifically evaluating safety negligence regarding fuel storage near active generators during public gatherings.
