Daijiworld Media Network - Amaravati
Amaravati, Apr 15: At least five people were killed and around 20 others injured in a powerful explosion at a house in Andhra Pradesh’s Sri Sathya Sai district on Wednesday, police said.
The incident took place in Kummaravandla Palli village in Kadiri mandal, where detonators and gas cylinders stored inside a residential house reportedly exploded, completely destroying the structure.
The blast also caused damage to several neighbouring houses, with the force of the explosion impacting the surrounding area.
According to officials, five people lost their lives in the incident, while the injured were rushed to a government hospital. Of the injured, 12 are said to be in critical condition and are under close medical supervision.
Emergency response teams, including fire personnel and police, quickly reached the site and initiated rescue and relief operations.
Preliminary reports indicate that explosives and gas cylinders were being stored illegally in the house, raising concerns about safety violations. Authorities have registered a case and launched an investigation into the incident.
Andhra Pradesh Home Minister V. Anitha expressed shock and grief over the tragedy. She spoke with district officials to assess the situation and directed that the injured receive the best possible medical care. She also assured support to the families of the victims.
State Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu also expressed anguish over the incident and instructed officials to ensure advanced treatment for those injured.
Authorities have deployed specialised medical teams to monitor the condition of critically injured victims, while the district administration has intensified relief measures.
Officials confirmed that a detailed inquiry has been ordered into the illegal storage of detonators at the site, with directions issued to take strict preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.
The state government has assured that all necessary assistance will be provided to the affected families as investigations continue.