Massive Gas Cylinder Blast at Cafe in Geeta University Injures 3, Sparks Safety Concerns

February 23, 2026

Panipat: The prestigious Geeta University campus, located in Haryana’s Panipat district, witnessed a horrific tragedy on Sunday night. A massive gas cylinder blast at the university’s Cafe No. 14 raised serious questions about security arrangements. Three cafe employees were seriously burned in the accident, while dozens of students fled the scene to save their lives.

The explosion was so powerful that pieces of the cafe’s roof and heavy furniture were thrown hundreds of feet into the air.

Flames, Explosion, and Panic at 9:30 PM

The incident occurred around 9:30 pm on Sunday night, when the university campus was bustling with activity. Staff at Cafe No. 14 were preparing dinner, and several hostel students were dining there. According to reports, a minor negligence on the part of the staff led to this major accident. It is reported that a gas burner or pipe was left open while working in the kitchen, causing a gas leak.

Within moments, flames erupted inside the cafe. Initially, the staff tried to control the fire, but it quickly spread. Just as the chaos had begun, a gas cylinder suddenly exploded with a loud bang. The blast reverberated throughout the 35-acre campus, terrifying students studying in the library and hostel.

Girls made a video, panic spread in the hostel

The most shocking aspect of the incident is a video captured by students from the girls’ hostel located directly opposite the cafe. The video shows flames reaching sky high. The students can be heard in the video, terrified. They express concern among themselves about whether a small fire extinguisher would be able to extinguish such a massive blaze.

In the video, a student can be heard asking, “How can such a huge fire be extinguished with this small cylinder? Why have you trapped us here?” As they talk, a loud explosion occurs, and a ball of fire covers the entire screen, causing the students to scream.

Bravery and rescue efforts of students

Upon hearing the explosion, students inside the cafe ran for cover. They said that if they had waited a few more seconds, there could have been significant loss of life and property. Following the explosion, other campus staff and security personnel arrived at the scene. They attempted to extinguish the fire using the university’s fire safety equipment, but the blast had already caused the fire to become uncontrollable.

Police assistance (Dial 112) and the fire department were immediately notified. Fire brigade vehicles arrived at the scene and, after approximately 45 minutes of intense effort, brought the fire under control. By then, all the cafe’s valuables, furniture, and structure had been reduced to ashes.

Police investigation and management claims: Contradictions in claims

Israna police station in-charge Mahipal has launched an investigation, considering the seriousness of the matter. He stated that the university management initially stated the cause of the fire was a short circuit. However, the station in-charge clarified that the video and evidence from the scene cast doubt on the management’s claims.

Mahipal said, “After watching the video, it clearly appears to be a case of a cylinder blast. Such a massive explosion and the roof blowing off doesn’t seem possible due to a short circuit.” Police will now question the university management again to determine whether safety standards were being followed.

Condition of injured employees

Three employees working in the kitchen at the time of the incident were severely burned in the fire. They were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital via ambulance. However, the university administration has not yet issued an official bulletin regarding their identities and health conditions, causing concern among students and their families.

Questions about security at an international level institution

Geeta University is a major educational center in Panipat, attracting students not only from various states in India but also from abroad. Such an accident on this modern, 35-acre campus exposes the security arrangements. Foreign students have also expressed concern. Parents say that if the blast had occurred during the day, when the cafe is crowded, the consequences could have been even more devastating.

The incident became a warning

An uneasy calm currently prevails on the university campus. Police and fire brigade teams are inspecting the scene. This incident serves as a reminder that gas safety regulations should not be compromised in commercial kitchens and institutions.