Puri, Odisha: A major accident occurred in Odisha's Puri on Diwali evening after a gas cylinder reportedly exploded due to a lamp's flame while people were bursting firecrackers. More than 10 people were injured in the incident, with seven reportedly sustaining critical injuries.

All the injured were rushed to Puri District Headquarters Hospital for treatment. One critically injured victim has been shifted to Cuttack for advanced medical care.

Explosion at Baliapanda House

According to preliminary information, the incident took place on Sunday evening at the residence of Dilip Singh, located behind Madan Villa in the Baliapanda area of Puri.

The explosion reportedly occurred when people were bursting firecrackers during Diwali celebrations and the flame from a traditional oil lamp came in contact with a gas cylinder, triggering a blast.

The explosion caused panic in the locality, leaving several people injured.

Seven People Reportedly Critical

Among the seriously injured, Sanjeev Sarkar was shifted to Cuttack for further treatment.

The other critically injured persons have been identified as Saraswati Debnath, Loknath Biswas, Anukul Biswas, Dilip Singh, Trinath Reddy and Jagannath Baliarsingh.

The injured are currently receiving medical attention, while their condition is being monitored.

Police Begin Investigation

Following the incident, personnel from Baliapanda and Kumbharpada police stations reached Puri District Headquarters Hospital and initiated an investigation.

The exact circumstances leading to the explosion are being examined. Further details regarding the condition of the injured and the extent of damage are awaited.

The incident has cast a shadow over Diwali celebrations in the holy town of Puri.

(With Input Debaraj Das)