Daijiworld Media Network - Mysuru

Mysuru, Dec 26: A balloon vendor was killed and four others were injured after a gas cylinder used for filling balloons exploded near Jayamarthanda Gate of the Mysuru Palace on Thursday night, casting a shadow over Christmas celebrations in the area.

The incident occurred around 8.30 pm when thousands of visitors had gathered at the palace premises for the ongoing flower show. A musical concert by popular singer Vasuki Vaibhav was also in progress barely 100 metres from the spot where the explosion took place.

According to eyewitnesses, the blast occurred while the vendor was filling balloons using a helium cylinder. The explosion triggered panic among the crowd, resulting in chaos and a brief stampede-like situation. The area remained tense for nearly half an hour as people dispersed in fear.

The balloon vendor, an unidentified man believed to be around 40 years old, died on the spot. Authorities are yet to establish his identity and place of residence.

Four pedestrians who were nearby sustained injuries and were rushed to KR Hospital and JSS Hospital for treatment. They have been identified as Lakshmi from Bengaluru, Manjula from Nanjangud, Shahina Shaber from Kolkata, and Kotresh Gutte from Ranibennur. City police commissioner Seema Latkar said the incident resulted in one death, one grievous injury and three other injuries. The affected persons include both tourists and local residents.

Following the blast, the concert was stopped immediately and the crowd was dispersed as a precaution. Traffic on the busy road opposite the palace and exhibition grounds was temporarily halted to allow emergency services to operate.

Police, fire personnel, a forensic team, a dog squad and an anti-bomb squad were pressed into service to investigate the cause of the explosion and rule out any foul play. Officials said a detailed investigation is under way. The incident has raised concerns over the safety of using gas cylinders in crowded public places during major events.