A powerful late-night explosion at a gas warehouse in Selvas, the administrative hub of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, has claimed the lives of three workers and left at least eight others injured. The incident occurred near the Dam area of Selvas, sending shockwaves through the neighborhood and raising serious concerns about industrial safety and the presence of hazardous facilities close to residential and educational zones.
Massive Blast Shakes Selvas Neighborhood
According to initial reports, the explosion took place inside a warehouse storing nitrogen gas cylinders. The blast was so intense that residents in nearby areas felt the ground shake, and debris was scattered across the surroundings. The sudden explosion not only damaged nearby properties but also created panic among local residents.
What makes the incident particularly alarming is the warehouse’s proximity to a school. Authorities confirmed that the facility is located only about 30 meters away from an educational campus. Residents and officials alike have expressed concern that if the explosion had occurred during school hours, the consequences could have been far more catastrophic.
The blast immediately turned the quiet neighborhood into a scene of chaos as flames, smoke, and debris filled the area.
Three Workers Killed Instantly
The explosion proved fatal for three workers who were present at the warehouse at the time of the incident. Officials said the workers died instantly due to the force of the blast. Their bodies were found at the site in severely injured condition, highlighting the intensity of the explosion.
Meanwhile, eight other individuals sustained injuries and were quickly transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Medical teams are monitoring their condition, while authorities continue to assess the full scale of the damage.
The sudden tragedy has devastated the families of the deceased workers, who are now mourning the unexpected loss of their loved ones.
Firefighters Rush to Control the Situation
Emergency response teams from the Dadra and Nagar Haveli Fire Department quickly reached the scene after receiving reports of the explosion. Firefighters worked swiftly to contain the flames and prevent further damage or additional blasts from gas cylinders stored in the warehouse.
Rescue teams conducted a thorough search operation to ensure that no other individuals were trapped inside the facility. Authorities also secured the surrounding area to protect residents and prevent additional injuries.
Investigation Underway: Collector Orders Probe
Dadra and Nagar Haveli Collector Priyank Kishore confirmed that a detailed investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the explosion. According to the administration, the warehouse was reportedly operated by a gas agency supplying oxygen and other industrial gases.
Officials from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) have been called in to examine the site and collect evidence. The investigation will focus on identifying the type of gas involved in the explosion and determining whether safety regulations were followed.
The Collector stated that authorities will take strict action if the warehouse is found to be operating illegally or violating safety norms. “The investigation is ongoing, and we cannot comment further until we receive complete reports. Eight injured individuals have been shifted to hospitals, and we will take appropriate action if the warehouse is found to be unauthorized,” he said.
Eyewitness Accounts Describe Terrifying Moments
Local resident Lakshmanbhai, who witnessed the aftermath of the explosion, described the terrifying moment when the blast occurred.
“We were standing outside our house in the morning when we heard a loud explosion. We started running immediately. Suddenly, something flew through the air and crashed nearby. The windows of our house and the glass of our parked car were shattered. Gas cylinders had burst and were thrown around by the blast. We barely managed to escape,” he said.
His account highlights how dangerously close the explosion came to residential homes in Selvas.
Fear and Anger Spread Among Residents
Following the deadly incident, fear and anger have spread throughout the Selvas community. Many residents are questioning how such a hazardous facility could operate so close to homes and a school.
Local citizens are demanding stricter monitoring of industrial units and better enforcement of safety regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The incident has once again brought attention to the growing concerns about industrial safety in rapidly developing regions like Selvas.
As investigations continue, authorities are under pressure to determine the cause of the explosion and ensure accountability for any violations that may have contributed to the disaster. For now, the people of Selvas remain shaken by the tragedy that has claimed lives and left a community searching for answers.