Four killed in powerful blast during Indian festival

India – (Special Correspondent / Web Desk) – At least four people lost their lives and more than 10 were critically injured after a powerful explosion rocked a river festival in southern India, local media reported on Wednesday. The incident occurred around 7pm on Tuesday in the Manalurpettai area of Tamil Nadu’s Kallakurichi district, when a gas cylinder being used to inflate balloons suddenly exploded.

Officials said four people died instantly, while several others were rushed to hospital with serious injuries. Thousands had gathered for the festival, and the blast happened shortly after cultural performances ended, as crowds were beginning to disperse.

Fragments of the cylinder struck people standing nearby, leaving many wounded. Police and fire brigade teams quickly arrived at the scene, controlled the fire, and launched rescue efforts. The injured were transported to a nearby government hospital using ambulances and private vehicles.

Police said the process of identifying the deceased is currently under way. “Four people died on the spot. Some of the injured persons have suffered serious burns. We are collecting full details of those who died and were injured,” said a senior police official.

Following the mishap, as chaos prevailed, police forces were deployed at the spot to maintain law and order.

Expressing grief over the loss of lives, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami said, “I am deeply distressed to learn the tragic news after a helium gas cylinder used to fill balloons exploded at the river festival held in Manalurpet, Kallakurichi District.

I extend my deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family, and I pray to God that all those injured make a full recovery and return to their respective home soon.”

“I also urge the state government to immediately provide appropriate compensation to the families of the deceased and to all those who were injured in the river festival accident,” he stated.

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Meanwhile, police have registered a case and started an investigation to ascertain whether the gas cylinder was purchased with proper permission, and whether safety rules were followed or not. “We are investigating all angles. Whether the accident happened due to negligence is not known yet,” added the police official.