Bhubaneswar: A powerful explosion on Monday followed a massive fire at a firecracker godown near the Infocity area in Bhubaneswar, causing extensive damage to the structure and sending shockwaves through nearby areas.
The blast was so intense that cracks appeared on the godown’s walls, and the noise could be heard several kilometers away, local residents said.
The explosion also shattered windows at a nearby hostel, scattering debris across the vicinity.
Odisha Fire Services quickly dispatched firefighting teams to the scene, where they worked to control the flames amid the risk of additional explosions from remaining firecrackers on-site.
“The fire is now fully under control. Our team is currently checking for any remaining firecrackers. When we arrived, several were still exploding on the top floor,” said a Fire Services personnel.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion.
Fortunately, no casualties have been reported, though the incident has intensified concerns regarding safety standards in storage facilities for hazardous materials.
