The death toll in the Cuttack firecracker blast climbed to three after another woman succumbed to severe burn injuries at SCB Medical College and Hospital.
The explosion occurred Thursday evening in Mahajanpur village when firecrackers were being stored inside a residence. The blast instantly killed a mother and her three-year-old daughter. The third victim, also a woman, died while undergoing treatment at SCB.
Police identified the victims as the wife, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter of Govind Nayak. The incident devastated the family and shocked the local community.
The powerful blast also damaged two houses in the area, leaving residents fearful and demanding stricter enforcement of safety measures regarding firecracker storage. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine how such a large stockpile was kept inside a residential building.
Local leaders expressed condolences and urged the government to take immediate steps to prevent similar tragedies. The incident highlights recurring safety concerns around firecracker handling in Odisha, especially in densely populated villages.
