A blast at an ice cream factory in Talapatna village under Dharakote police limits in Ganjam district killed one person and injured three others on Monday.
The incident occurred when workers were filling ice cream into containers.
The victims were identified as Ramesh Mahapatra, Hemant Mahapatra, Sabhapati Mahapatra, and Bidesi Pradhan. Locals rushed them to Aska Hospital immediately after the explosion. As the condition of the two victims deteriorated, doctors referred them to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur. One of them died during treatment, while the others remain critical.
Police reached the site soon after the blast and began an investigation. Authorities are examining the factory premises and questioning witnesses to determine the cause of the explosion. Officials confirmed that safety lapses may have contributed to the tragedy, but they are awaiting forensic reports.
The blast shocked the local community. Residents expressed concern over industrial safety standards in small-scale factories. Families of the victims demanded strict action against those responsible and urged authorities to enforce stronger safety measures.
