Patna, Oct 23 (IANS) A massive explosion occurred at a house in Alampur village in Bihar’s Siwan district on Friday after a fire broke out among a stockpile of firecrackers, triggering a series of blasts and causing part of the building to collapse.
Residents have claimed that around five people lost their lives in the incident, but the death toll has yet to be officially confirmed.
The incident took place under the jurisdiction of the Jamo police station.
According to an official, firecrackers were stored at the house of Md. Amiruddin Miyan, who is said to be a firecracker dealer.
Residents said several people were inside the house when the fire broke out.
The flames reportedly spread rapidly through the stockpile, triggering repeated explosions.
Intermittent blasts continued for nearly two hours, creating panic among residents of the village and surrounding areas.
The force of the explosions was so intense that the front portion of the house collapsed, scattering debris onto the road.
The extent of the damage and the severity of the blasts have complicated rescue operations. The district administration is making efforts to identify the victims.
Residents have reported that approximately five people may have died.
However, officials have yet to confirm the exact number of casualties or establish the identities of those reportedly killed.
The number of people injured, if any, has also not been officially established.
The district administration has initiated rescue and relief operations, while fire brigade teams have reached the spot to assist in the response.
The cause of the fire remains unclear. Further details are awaited regarding the circumstances in which the firecrackers were stored at the house and whether the necessary safety regulations were being followed.
Authorities are expected to establish the exact number of casualties and determine the circumstances surrounding the explosion as rescue operations and investigations progress.
–IANS
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