Deogarh district witnessed a frightening incident late Monday night when a gas cylinder exploded at a residence in Barkote block.
The blast caused extensive damage; however, the family members escaped unharmed.
The explosion occurred at the house of Anulya Nath, located behind Barakot Medical. A cylinder kept under the portico caught fire and exploded, creating a loud noise that immediately alarmed the neighbourhood. At that moment, the family slept inside the house and narrowly avoided injury.
As a result of the blast, the asbestos roof ripped apart, plaster fell from the walls, and flames engulfed a car and a bike parked under the portico. Both vehicles burned completely, adding to the heavy property loss.
Soon after hearing the explosion, residents rushed to the spot. The Barakot fire service team arrived promptly and controlled the flames, thereby preventing further destruction. Meanwhile, supply officials stated that the exact cause of the fire inside the cylinder remains unclear.
Witnesses described the sound of the explosion as terrifying, and the noise drew people from nearby areas to the site. Consequently, the incident raised concerns about safety measures in households where cylinders are stored outside or near vehicles.
Authorities quickly launched an investigation to determine the reason behind the fire and subsequent blast. At the same time, the family and neighbours expressed relief that no lives were lost despite the scale of destruction.
ALSO READ: Team India Players Visit Puri Srimandir Before T20 Clash
