‘Illegal firecracker’ explosion leaves 2 dead, 2 injured in Odisha’s Jagatsinghpur

A devastating explosion has claimed the lives of a man and his wife while another couple has been left battling for their lives in Jagatsinghpur, Odisha. The suspected ‘firecracker blast’ led to the collapse of a house’s roof and walls, killing the two while two others have been left critical.

The deceased have been identified as Rajesh Das and his wife, Rani Das, residents of Badabag village. Those injured in the blast have been identified as the deceased Rajesh's younger brother, Paresh Das, and his wife, Lakshmipriya Das. The explosion occurred at night, reportedly linked to a fireworks incident, as per eyewitnesses present at the scene.

Authorities, including police, the fire brigade, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), promptly arrived at the scene to conduct rescue efforts. The trapped family members were extracted from the debris and transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention.

The local police have initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion and ascertain whether legal or illegal fireworks were involved. Jagatsinghpur Superintendent of Police (SP) assured that the enquiry would be thorough.

“Families of two brothers were residing in the building. We have recovered a body from the debris. We suspect another body is buried under the rubble. Another couple was rescued and admitted to the hospital. Further search operation is on. Fortunately, the children were sleeping in a separate house. We are not sure if the blast occurred due to a cracker burst. But, the probe is on,” informed Jagatsinghpur SP Bhawani Shankar Udgata.

Likewise, Jagatsinghpur MLA Amarendra Das said, “This is very saddening. I was in Bhubaneswar to attend a meeting and rushed here after getting the news. I have also informed the health minister about the incident.”

The tragedy has left the village community in shock and mourning, as discussions around safety and legalities of fireworks usage come to the forefront.