Bhubaneswar: Three members of a family sustained injuries, including one in critical condition, following a massive explosion at an illegal firecracker manufacturing unit in Bachhuripada village under Baisinga Police Station in Mayurbhanj district on Sunday.
The force of the blast was so intense that the roof of the house was blown off and landed on nearby tree branches.
According to reports, several families in Bachhuripada are involved in the illegal manufacture and storage of firecrackers and explosive materials. The Das family, headed by Santosh Das, has reportedly been engaged in this activity for many years.
The incident occurred around 11 am when Anil Das, the eldest son of Santosh Das, accidentally ignited gunpowder while preparing firecrackers. The ensuing fire rapidly engulfed the house, culminating in a devastating explosion.
Anil sustained serious injuries and was first admitted to Balasore District Headquarters Hospital before being transferred to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for advanced treatment. His mother, Shantilata Das, and younger brother, Sunil Das, also suffered injuries and are currently undergoing treatment at Baisinga Community Health Centre.
The Betnoti fire department responded promptly to extinguish the blaze. Police officials including Betnoti SDPO Minati Biswal, Baisinga Police Station IIC Barini Das, and Additional Tahasildar Ishwar Chandra Rana have launched a detailed investigation into the explosion.
