Bhubaneswar, Jan 28: A firecracker explosion at Narisho Nidhisahi in Balipatna claimed one life and left three others critically injured on Tuesday night. The seriously injured were initially admitted to Niali Hospital and later transferred to Capital Hospital for advanced treatment. Police and fire brigade teams have reached the site and launched an investigation.

According to eyewitnesses, a loud blast shook the village around 10:30 PM. The explosion occurred while firecrackers were being stored illegally. One of the victims, identified as Abhinna Kandi, was almost completely burned and succumbed to his injuries en route to the hospital. Three other people sustained severe burns. Notably, Abhinna’s mother and brother had died in a similar firecracker explosion several years ago. The incident also destroyed the firecracker factory.

Earlier on the same day, another firecracker blast in the Sundarpada area left five people seriously injured. One of the victims lost a hand. The fire brigade arrived promptly and rescued the injured, who were admitted to a nearby medical facility for treatment.

Authorities are investigating the incidents to determine the cause and to ensure such accidents are prevented in the future.