Tragic Firecracker Explosion During Lord Jagannath Festivities in Puri

 Two people died, including a 15-year-old boy, and several others sustained severe burn injuries following a firecracker explosion during the Chandan Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri on Wednesday. The incident occurred near the Narendra Pushkarini Devighat, causing panic and chaos among the devotees present at the festivities.

The explosion resulted in several individuals being critically injured and immediately rushed to the district headquarters hospital for urgent medical attention. Some patients remain in critical condition as healthcare professionals work tirelessly to provide the necessary treatment.

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Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate incident, stating, “Sorry to hear about the accident near Puri Narendra pool. The chief administrative secretary and the district administration have been directed to ensure proper treatment of the injured and monitor the system. All the medical expenses of the injured will be borne from the chief minister’s Relief Fund. Wishing everyone good health.”

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also conveyed his condolences, saying, “I am saddened to hear the news of many injured in the unfortunate accident that took place at Narendra Pushkarini Devighat during the Jagannath’s Puri Chandan Yatra. With the blessings of the Lord, it is my wish that those who are under treatment get well soon and return home.”

The state government has taken swift action in response to the incident. The chief minister instructed his chief administrative secretary and the district administration to ensure that all injured individuals receive proper medical care. The medical expenses will be covered by the chief minister’s Relief Fund, ensuring that the victims and their families do not bear the financial burden during this difficult time.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday morning visited a private hospital here to meet the injured persons.

Patnaik talked to doctors of the health facility and enquired about the condition of the patients.

This tragic incident has cast a shadow over the Chandan Yatra festivities, and the community mourns the loss while hoping for the swift recovery of those injured. The authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the explosion to prevent such incidents in the future.