Explosion claims life of Kanpur man during Diwali cylinder unloading, wife hospitalized

A tragic explosion occurred in Kanpur during the Diwali celebrations, resulting in the death of 40-year-old Surendra. The incident took place in the Sisamau area while Surendra was unloading a gas cylinder he had brought home for the festival. The explosion was powerful enough to cause significant damage to the surrounding area, with debris reported to have been found lodged in nearby structures.

Surendra's wife, Navita, was also severely injured in the blast and was rushed to a local hospital. Despite medical intervention, she was later pronounced dead due to her injuries. Their children, Ayush and Saloni, were reportedly on the roof of their home decorating for Diwali when they heard their mother call for them just before the explosion occurred. Eyewitness accounts described a loud noise that shook the neighborhood, prompting immediate concern and chaos.

Emergency services, including the police and Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) teams, responded swiftly to the scene. The area was cordoned off for investigation as officials gathered evidence to determine the cause of the explosion. Initial assessments indicate that the blast resulted from the gas cylinder malfunctioning during unloading. The force of the explosion shattered windows of nearby vehicles and left visible damage to adjacent homes, with cracks reported in six houses.

Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the explosion, focusing on safety protocols regarding gas cylinder handling, especially during festive occasions when such incidents can pose a greater risk. The local community is in shock, grappling with the tragic loss and the suddenness of the event, as residents gathered to express their condolences and support for the grieving family.

In a separate incident that occurred on the same night, a fire broke out in the Kakadev police station area of Kanpur, claiming the lives of three individuals, including a couple and their housemaid. The fire was believed to have been ignited by a lamp left unattended after Diwali prayers. Firefighters worked diligently to control the blaze, but the couple and their maid succumbed to smoke inhalation and severe burns.