A devastating LPG cylinder explosion at a goldsmith workshop in the bustling Elephant Gate area sent shockwaves across the city on Tuesday morning, leaving five people dead and several others injured. The blast occurred in a narrow commercial lane lined with small manufacturing units, many of which deal in jewelry crafting and metalwork.
According to preliminary reports, workers were engaged in routine gold melting operations when an LPG cylinder reportedly developed a leak. Within minutes, the confined workspace filled with gas, triggering a massive explosion. The impact was so severe that the workshop’s walls partially collapsed, trapping workers under debris. Nearby shops suffered structural damage, with shattered glass and twisted shutters bearing evidence of the blast’s intensity.
Emergency response teams, including fire and rescue personnel, arrived swiftly at the scene. Rescue workers combed through the rubble for hours to retrieve victims and ensure no one remained trapped. The injured were rushed to government hospitals, where some remain in critical condition with burn injuries and fractures.
Authorities have cordoned off the area and initiated an investigation into the cause of the explosion. Early assessments suggest possible negligence in handling flammable materials and inadequate ventilation within the cramped workspace. Officials are also examining whether safety protocols were followed and if the unit possessed the required operational clearances.
Local residents described scenes of chaos immediately after the explosion. “We heard a loud bang and felt the ground shake. Smoke filled the air, and people started running,” said a shopkeeper from an adjacent building. Many traders in the locality have expressed concern about safety standards in small-scale industrial units operating within densely populated commercial zones.
The incident has reignited debate over fire safety enforcement in urban industrial clusters. Civic authorities have announced surprise inspections across similar establishments to prevent such tragedies in the future. They have also urged business owners to conduct regular equipment checks and ensure compliance with safety norms.
Compensation for the families of the deceased is expected to be announced, while officials have assured strict action against those found responsible. As the city mourns the loss of lives, questions linger over systemic lapses that may have contributed to the disaster.
The tragedy stands as a grim reminder of the risks associated with improper handling of hazardous materials, particularly in congested neighborhoods where emergency access can be limited. Investigators are expected to submit a detailed report in the coming days.
News as reported
