Explosion in Ayodhya collapses house, 5 dead, many buried under rubble, rescue operation underway

National News:  A powerful explosion rocked the Pagla Bhari village in the Pura Qalandar police station area of ​​Ayodhya district on Thursday night. The blast was so powerful that it shook the entire area. Within moments, houses were razed to the ground, and people were buried under the rubble. Villagers heard the noise and informed the police. Shortly after, the SSP and other officials arrived at the scene. An atmosphere of panic spread throughout the area. People fled their homes and went to safer places.

Rescue operations begin swiftly

Following the blast, police and relief teams immediately launched a rescue operation. Removal of debris using JCBs and other machinery is underway. Fire and health teams are also present at the scene. By late night, five bodies had been pulled from the rubble. Three children and two other people have been confirmed dead. There are fears that more people may be buried. The entire village is in mourning, and people are praying for the safety of their loved ones.

Initial investigation suspects firecrackers

Initial police investigations suggest the explosion was caused by firecrackers. It's being reported that a cylinder leaked amid the firecrackers stored in the house, causing the massive explosion. An exploded cylinder and a cooker were also recovered from the scene. However, this has not yet been officially confirmed by authorities. A forensic team has been called in to investigate. The administration says the real cause will be revealed soon.

Identification and mourning of the dead

Doctors declared all five people brought to the district hospital dead. All of them suffered severe burns. The deceased included three children and two others. The deceased family is said to be that of Ramkumar alias Parasnath, who lived in their new house outside the village. The blast caused chaos in the village. Relatives and neighbors were in shock. There was an atmosphere of screaming and crying outside the hospital.

Police-administration deployed on the spot

Upon receiving information about the incident, SSP Dr. Gaurav Grover, SP City Chakrapani Tripathi, and CO Ayodhya arrived at the scene. Senior officers are personally monitoring the rescue efforts. The site has been cordoned off to prevent crowds from obstructing the rescue operation. Police teams are collecting evidence and several burnt items have been seized from the scene. The administration has appealed to the public not to pay attention to rumors.

Eyewitnesses told the story of terror

Villagers said the blast was so powerful that it shattered the windows of nearby houses. People rushed out after the accident, and screams could be heard from the rubble. Villagers immediately began rescue operations and informed the police. Women and children were seen crying. As bodies were pulled from the rubble, the entire village was plunged into mourning. The sight of this scene terrified everyone.

Investigation underway, report awaited

Officials say the investigation is ongoing and an official statement will be issued soon. Forensic teams are collecting samples from the scene. It's likely that a mixture of firecrackers and a gas cylinder caused the tragedy. Rescue teams are clearing the debris and searching for those trapped. The administration has assured the families of the deceased of all possible assistance. This accident highlights how dangerous improper storage of firecrackers can be.