A single lapse turned into a major accident in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, on Tuesday. Boring work was under way near the Suman Nagar Jain temple in the Vijay Nagar police station area when an underground Avantika Gas pipeline suddenly ruptured. A sharp leak triggered an explosion and flames that sent panic through the entire locality. A social media influencer was seriously burnt in the incident, while three other people were injured. Several two-wheelers parked nearby caught fire and were completely gutted.
How the accident happened
Digging and boring work was in progress near the Suman Nagar Jain temple complex. During this, the Avantika Gas pipeline running underground was damaged and gas began to leak. Within minutes, the fire broke out with a powerful blast. As soon as word of the accident spread, police reached the spot and took the steps needed to bring the situation under control.
Influencer was on her Activa, 20 percent burnt
The condition of social media influencer Rajkumari, who was caught in the fire, is said to be serious. According to her family, she was riding her Activa at the time when the flames suddenly reached her. She is reported to have suffered burns of around 20 percent. The fire was so intense that her Activa and several other two-wheelers were burnt to ashes. Important documents, a laptop and other belongings kept in the vehicle were also completely destroyed. Further details from the police in this matter are still awaited.
Four people injured
Apart from Rajkumari, Subhash Thakur, Gopal Malakar and Shyam Baroda were also hurt in the accident. All the injured were rushed to hospital for treatment.
Councillor raises questions
Balmukund Soni, the councillor for Ward 31 who was present at the site, said the work was being carried out by the municipal corporation. He described it as water recharging work and directly questioned the negligence of the gas agency.
Gas company points to contractors
Avantika Gas official Rohit Jain said the company had put up warning boards and guidelines every 30 metres. According to him, it is mandatory to inform the helpline before any digging or boring, but this was not done in this case.
Fire doused with foam
According to fire officer Shivkumar Dubey, the fire brigade team reached the spot immediately after being informed. A special foam liquid was used to bring the blaze under control.
Police launch probe
ACP Parag Saini said four people are reported to have been injured in the accident. Investigators are still trying to establish whether the boring work was being done by the government or privately. Action will be taken against those responsible once the inquiry is complete. The biggest question is who gave permission to carry out boring directly above a gas pipeline, and whether safety norms were followed. All eyes are now on the investigation report, which will decide who is truly responsible for this negligence.
