Bhubaneswar, October 15: Commuters on the Jaydev Vihar flyover were thrown into panic on Wednesday evening when a scooter loaded with firecrackers suddenly caught fire after an explosion. The blast left two individuals with serious injuries, prompting bystanders to rush them to Capital Hospital while also alerting emergency services.

Eyewitnesses said that the explosion occurred while the two were traveling from Bhubaneswar towards Cuttack. A loud blast near the OCAC building was followed by the sight of the scooter engulfed in flames. Several firecrackers that had not detonated were scattered across the road, causing a major disruption to traffic.

It is believed that the explosion may have been caused by the firecrackers on the scooter, likely due to friction or the buildup of heat.

Police and fire personnel responded swiftly, managing to bring the situation under control.

With Diwali approaching, authorities have urged the public to handle and transport firecrackers with greater care, citing several similar incidents in previous years resulting from improper storage or handling.

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