Firecracker Explosion Injures 15 During Lord Jagannath’s Chandan Yatra in Puri
Fifteen people were injured during a firecracker explosion at Lord Jagannath’s Chandan Yatra festival in Puri, Odisha. Some are in critical condition.
Fifteen people were injured when a heap of firecrackers exploded during Lord Jagannath’s Chandan Yatra festival in Puri, Odisha last night. Some of the injured are reported to be in critical condition. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed his sorrow on the social media platform X, stating that he was saddened to hear about the accident near Puri Narendra Pool. He has directed the Chief Administrative Secretary and the District Administration to ensure proper treatment for the injured and to monitor the situation closely. The Chief Minister also announced that all medical expenses of the injured will be covered by the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. He wished everyone a speedy recovery.
#WATCH | Odisha: Several injured after firecrackers exploded during Lord Jagannath's Chandan Yatra festival in Puri. Details awaited. pic.twitter.com/dV7mXHZGga
— ANI (@ANI) May 29, 2024
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also took to social media platform X to express his condolences, stating, “I am saddened to hear the news of the unfortunate accident at Narendra Pushkarini Devighat during Puri Chandan Yatra. I pray for the swift recovery of those undergoing treatment.”
According to information provided by the police, hundreds of people had gathered on the banks of Narendra Pushkarini Sarovar to witness the ritual at the time of the accident. A group of devotees were setting off fireworks when a spark ignited a pile of firecrackers, causing an explosion. The burning firecrackers fell on the crowd, prompting some people to jump into the water to escape. A doctor at the scene reported that the injured were taken to the district hospital, with four individuals in critical condition.
The explosion caused chaos among the attendees. Puri SP Pinak Mishra stated, “Many people were injured in the fire incident while bursting crackers. After receiving information about the accident, a rescue team was dispatched to the scene, and all the injured have been sent to SCB Hospital Cuttack. Our priority is to ensure the proper treatment of the injured.”