Puri, Odisha: An explosion occurred last night during the Chandan Yatra festival of Lord Jagannath in Puri, causing injuries to fifteen people, some of whom are reported to be in serious condition. The blast happened near the Narendra Pool where a pile of firecrackers ignited unexpectedly. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed his sorrow over the incident on social media platform X, stating, “Saddened to hear about the accident near Narendra Pool in Puri. I have directed the Chief Administrative Secretary and district administration to ensure proper treatment for the injured. The situation will be closely monitored, and all medical expenses will be covered by the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. Wishing everyone a speedy recovery.”
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also expressed his condolences on X, saying, “Deeply saddened to hear about the unfortunate accident at Narendra Pushkarini Devighat during the Puri Chandan Yatra. Praying for the speedy recovery of those undergoing treatment.”
According to police reports, hundreds of people had gathered by the Narendra Pushkarini Sarovar to witness the rituals when a spark accidentally fell onto a pile of firecrackers, causing a blast. The burning firecrackers scattered among the crowd, causing panic, with some people jumping into the water to escape the flames. A doctor stated that the injured were taken to the district hospital, with four individuals in critical condition.
SP Puri Pinak Mishra commented on the incident, saying, “Several people were injured in a fire incident while bursting firecrackers. A rescue team reached the spot, and all the injured were sent to SCB Hospital in Cuttack. Our priority is to provide the best possible treatment for the injured.”
The explosion led to chaos at the scene. The police and rescue teams acted swiftly, ensuring that all the injured were promptly transported to the hospital for treatment.
