A massive explosion occurred late at night in a hardware store in Rajasthan's Jhunjhunu district. The blast was so powerful that the shopkeeper, Shankarlal, was thrown into the air and landed on the road. Several shops were damaged in the explosion, and the police have initiated an investigation.
Jhunjhunu: A powerful explosion rocked a hardware store late Tuesday night in Khetri town, Jhunjhunu district, Rajasthan, plunging the entire area into panic. The blast was so b that the store's iron shutter was thrown approximately 60 feet away, and shopkeeper Shankarlal (a resident of Purna), who was sleeping inside, died on the spot. The sound of the explosion echoed throughout the region, causing people to rush out of their homes.
Powerful Blast at 2 AM
According to eyewitnesses, a sudden and powerful explosion occurred around 2 AM from the hardware store located at Nizampur Mod in Khetri. The force of the blast was so immense that nearby shop windows shattered, walls cracked, and debris scattered across the road.
When people arrived at the scene, they found the store's shutter lying nearly 60 feet away and shopkeeper Shankarlal's body by the roadside. The sight was so horrifying that it sent shivers down the spines of those who witnessed it.
Fire Department Extinguished Blaze Hours Later
Following the explosion, a fire broke out in the shop and spread to a nearby bookstore. Two fire tenders from HCL and the municipality promptly arrived at the scene, and after battling the blaze for about two hours, the fire was brought under control.
Local residents stated that immediately after the blast, the smoke and flames were so intense that no one dared to go near. People from the surrounding areas rushed out of their homes and informed the police.
Police and Forensic Team Engaged in Investigation
Upon receiving information about the incident, Khetri police station personnel arrived at the scene, and the body was placed in the mortuary of the Government Ajit Sub-District Hospital. The police summoned a forensic team to collect evidence.
Initial investigations suggest the possibility of the explosion being caused by a short circuit, gas cylinder leak, or chemical reaction, as flammable materials like thinner, paint, and solvents were stored in the shop. However, the police stated that the exact causes cannot be confirmed until the investigation report is released.
Panic in the Area After the Incident
As news of the explosion spread, an atmosphere of fear and chaos enveloped Khetri town. As a precautionary measure, the local administration has increased security in nearby markets. The district administration has also issued directives for the safe storage of flammable items in other shops. Meanwhile, mourning has gripped the family of the deceased, Shankarlal. People are demanding that the administration take stringent measures to prevent such accidents.
