Khargone: A tragic incident unfolded in Magarkhedi village under the Balkwada police station area in Madhya Pradesh’s Khargone district on Sunday evening when a powerful explosion ripped through a crude oil tanker during welding work at a local workshop.

The blast claimed the life of a shepherd and left two others—a tanker driver and a welding mechanic—critically injured.

Residual Vapours Suspected Behind Blast

According to Superintendent of Police Ravindra Verma, welding work was underway on the rear section of the tanker when residual vapours apparently ignited, triggering the massive explosion.

The shepherd, who was grazing goats nearby, was caught in the blast radius and died from his injuries.

The driver and the mechanic, who were carrying out the repair work, suffered severe burns and trauma and were rushed to a hospital. Their condition remains critical.

Nearby Buildings Damaged; Probe Underway

The impact of the explosion shattered the windowpanes of a nearby private school and a residential house. No other casualties have been reported, though the incident left local residents shaken.

Preliminary investigations indicate that essential safety protocols for repairing fuel tankers—including thorough cleaning, gas-free certification and the use of explosion-proof equipment—may not have been fully followed.

Welding on tankers that previously carried flammable substances such as crude oil is considered highly hazardous if residual hydrocarbons are not completely removed.

Police Examine Safety Lapses

District authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the incident. Police have registered a case and are examining the workshop owner as well as possible safety violations.

Experts say tanker repair workshops often overlook hazardous-area safety norms, leading to preventable accidents. The incident has once again highlighted the dangers associated with informal repair units handling petroleum-laden vehicles in rural and semi-urban areas of Madhya Pradesh.

The local administration has assured full support to the victims’ families. The deceased shepherd’s body has been handed over to his relatives after the post-mortem examination, while the two injured continue to receive treatment.