Eight people lost their lives with multiple getting seriously injured after an explosion happened by a cylinder blast in the underground shops of a 5-storey building situated in Soni Market. The building is located in the Kotwali police station area of Rajasthan’s Bikaner. Many people are trapped under the rubble as the building collapsed
Eyewitnesses described the explosion as extremely powerful, with nearby shops and walls also sustaining damage. So far, eight bodies have been recovered, and three critically injured individuals have been admitted to PBM Hospital.
District Collector Namrata and Superintendent of Police Kavendra Sagar quickly reached the scene to oversee rescue operations. Police, fire brigade, and municipal teams are currently working to clear the debris and save those still trapped.
IANS reported, “Bikaner, Rajasthan: A gas cylinder blast near Kotwali, Madan Market, caused a five-story building collapse, raising the death toll to eight. Rescue teams recovered three more bodies today. Narrow lanes hampered operations. Several injured victims remain hospitalized, and rescue efforts continue.”
Initial investigations suggest that the explosion might have been caused by a gas leak, as the underground shops were reportedly using LPG cylinders intended for domestic use – a possible violation of safety regulations.
The area around Soni Market has been sealed off, and the fire has been brought under control. However, rescue teams are still searching for survivors. Authorities have urged the public to stay calm and avoid spreading rumors as the investigation continues.