Mohali Cylinder Plant Blast: Two Dead, Four Injured in Massive Oxygen Factory Explosion

National News: A powerful blast shook an oxygen cylinder factory in Mohali’s Phase-9 Industrial Area on Wednesday morning, sparking widespread panic in the surrounding locality. The blast claimed the lives of two workers on the spot and left four others seriously injured. The explosion was so intense that debris from the cylinders flew nearly a kilometer away, shattering windows of nearby buildings and homes.

Welding Work in Progress When Blast Occurred

Eyewitnesses stated that the explosion took place while welding operations were underway inside the factory. Among the deceased were Asif Khan (25), a resident of Lucknow, and Devinder Kumar (25). At the time of the incident, approximately 6–7 workers were inside the plant. The injured victims were immediately rushed to Mohali Government Hospital, where two are said to be in critical condition.

Explosion Sound Heard Kilometers Away, Panic in Locality

The deafening blast was heard from several kilometers away, prompting residents in nearby areas to flee their homes in panic. Some of the cylinder fragments reportedly landed in nearby Kambala village. Several nearby houses and commercial shops also suffered damage, with broken windowpanes and structural cracks. Police responded swiftly, cordoned off the area, and increased security as a precautionary measure.

Factory Sealed, Administrative Investigation Underway

Following the incident, SDM Damneep Kaur and a team of police officials reached the site to assess the situation. Authorities have sealed the factory and launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings suggest that the explosion was likely caused by a gas leak from one of the cylinders, which ignited due to sparks from welding activity. Factory owners are currently being questioned, and officials are examining whether proper industrial safety protocols were in place.

Locals Blame Factory for Ignoring Safety Norms

Local residents have alleged that the factory failed to follow essential safety guidelines. According to them, this is not the first time such an incident has occurred at the plant, but previous complaints were ignored by the administration. The public is now demanding compensation for the victims' families and stringent legal action against those responsible for the negligence.