A deadly cylinder explosion in Bengaluru left six family members injured, including two children, when a suspected gas leak triggered a powerful blast in their rented house in Vinayaka Layout near Nayandahalli, sending shockwaves through the neighbourhood and raising questions about household gas safety.
The victims were Karilingappa (40), Lakshmamma (42), Chaitra (11), Basava (9), Geetha, and Girija (3-year-old). All six are from the same family and were injured when the cylinder exploded while food was being prepared inside the house, according to sources. The blast's force was said to have caused severe burns and panic among residents living close by.
Lakshmamma and one of the young children are said to be in critical condition. Both have been admitted to Victoria Hospital in Bengaluru, where doctors are monitoring their health closely. The others in the family are being treated for burns and other injuries caused by the explosion as well.
The family has come from Raichur district and settled down in Bengaluru to find jobs. They were residing in a rented house in Vinayaka Layout near Nayandahalli. A routine day turned tragic when a suspected gas leak may have triggered the explosion. The cause of the explosion is not clear, but it was said that leaked cooking gas could have accumulated in the house before the explosion.
Residents rushed to respond following the loud explosion. Neighbours notified emergency services and assisted in getting the injured people out of the damaged house. The blast caused considerable damage to household items and parts of the structure, but the extent is still unknown, state officials said.
Police and fire department personnel came in and looked at the site shortly after the explosion. Officials are checking the gas cylinder, regulator, and other equipment to discover whether a technical fault, gas leakage, or other causes were to blame for the explosion. A detailed report is going to be completed once forensic and safety inspections have been conducted.
The incident has once again reminded people to keep the LPG cylinders, regulators, and gas pipelines in homes well-maintained. Safety experts advise people to immediately close gas valves, ensure proper ventilation, and avoid using electrical switches when they suspect gas leaks. Residents need to be watchful and report leaks to prevent any such tragedy, authorities said.
As the injured family continues to recover at the hospital, residents and well-wishers have expressed concern and support. Lakshmamma and the critically injured child’s condition remain a matter of concern as investigators work to uncover the cause of the blast.
