An air conditioner (AC) exploded in the lab of the Computer Science and Application Department at A++ grade Kurukshetra University in Haryana. At the time of the incident, around 25 students were giving practicals in the lab. After the loud blast, chaos erupted in the lab, and within minutes, the entire room was filled with smoke.
The relief was that the students were evacuated in time and there was no loss of life. An attempt was made on-site to control the fire using a fire extinguisher. However, the fire brigade department was immediately informed. About half an hour later, the fire brigade vehicle arrived at the scene and managed to bring the fire under control after some effort.
Practical ongoing in the lab
The department HOD Prof. Chandrakant said that at the time of the incident, a practical was going on in the lab. Suddenly, there was a blast in the AC, after which the fire spread rapidly. He and the staff immediately evacuated the lab and sent the students down. After that, the fire brigade and security team were informed.
Lab equipment destroyed
Within about 15 to 20 minutes, fire brigade vehicles reached the spot and brought the fire under control. However, by then a lot of equipment kept inside the lab had already burned. The fire caused damage to the AC, computer systems, and other electronic devices. After the fire, the entire lab was filled with smoke.
Fire caused by short circuit
According to Prof. Chandrakant, initial investigation suggests that a short circuit in the AC and excessive heat are being considered the cause of the accident. He mentioned that some of the ACs installed in the lab were old. Recently, many ACs in the department have also malfunctioned. Due to the intense heat and continuous load, this accident may have occurred.
Security also reached the spot
As soon as the incident was reported, university officials and security department staff reached the spot. The university administration has started an investigation into the entire matter. Meanwhile, after the accident, there was an atmosphere of fear among students and staff.
Later, practical was conducted in another lab
Prof. Chandrakant stated that most of the students had completed their return work and computer practice. Students were giving their viva. Some children had practical remaining. After the incident, those children were sent to another lab to complete their practical. Fortunately, there were no casualties.