Patna: A powerful explosion erupted after firecrackers stored in a house in Alampur village, Siwan district, Bihar, on Friday. The fire caused several consecutive explosions, and the intensity of the explosions was so intense that a portion of the house collapsed. Locals feared the death toll to be around five, though the administration has not yet officially confirmed the death toll.
The incident occurred under the Jamo police station jurisdiction. According to officials, firecrackers were stored in the house of Mohammad Amiruddin Mian, who is reportedly a firecracker dealer.
Continuous explosions followed the firecrackers fire
According to locals, several people were inside the house at the time of the fire. The fire spread rapidly in the firecracker store, causing a series of explosions. The explosions continued intermittently for about two hours, spreading panic in the village and surrounding areas.
The explosions were so powerful that the front portion of the house collapsed and debris scattered across the street.
Five feared dead, no official confirmation
Local residents feared the death of around five people in the accident. However, officials have not yet confirmed the exact number of fatalities or established the identities of the alleged victims. The number of people injured in the accident has also not been officially released.
The damage to the house and the intensity of the explosions are hampering rescue operations. The district administration is trying to identify the victims.
Relief and rescue operations underway
Following the incident, the district administration launched a relief and rescue operation. Fire department teams also arrived at the scene and are working to address the situation.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown. Officials will also investigate the circumstances under which the firecrackers were stored in the house and whether safety regulations were followed.
The exact number of casualties and the cause of the explosion are expected to be known as the rescue operation and investigation progress.