Mumbai: Four people, including three members of a family, were injured after a gas cylinder exploded inside a house in the city on Thursday evening.
The powerful blast, which occurred around 7 pm, triggered a fire and sent shockwaves through the neighbourhood, with vibrations reportedly felt in adjoining homes.
According to preliminary information, repair work was underway on a gas stove at the residence of the Gawade family when the cylinder suddenly exploded, engulfing the room in flames. The incident was captured on CCTV cameras installed nearby, and footage of the explosion has since been circulating widely.
Eyewitnesses said the explosion was so intense that it rattled windows and doors of nearby houses. An elderly man who was seated on the veranda outside the house was thrown to the ground due to the pressure wave generated by the blast. Fortunately, he escaped with minor injuries.
CCTV visuals show flames and debris bursting out of the dwelling within seconds, as bystanders scramble to safety. Thick smoke can be seen billowing from the house immediately after the explosion, prompting residents to alert emergency services.
The injured have been identified as Sumati Ramesh Gawade (65), Avantika Ajay Gawade (45), Yash Gawade (10), and gas mechanic Javed Abdul Shaikh (30). All four were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Hospital sources said the victims suffered burn injuries of varying degrees, though their condition is reported to be stable. The elderly man who was knocked down outside the house did not require hospitalisation.
Teams from the local police station and the fire brigade reached the spot soon after receiving information about the explosion. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control and prevented it from spreading to neighbouring houses.
Authorities have cordoned off the area as a precautionary measure. Officials are assessing structural damage to the affected house and surrounding properties.
An investigation has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the explosion. Preliminary suspicion points to a possible gas leak or mishandling during the stove repair work. Investigators are examining whether safety protocols were followed and if there was any lapse in handling the cylinder.
Police officials stated that statements of the injured and other witnesses will be recorded as part of the inquiry. The forensic team is also expected to inspect the scene to ascertain technical aspects that may have contributed to the blast.
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of adhering to strict safety measures while handling LPG cylinders and conducting repair work. Authorities have urged citizens to ensure that only certified professionals carry out such repairs and to immediately report any suspected gas leak.
Further updates are awaited as the investigation progresses.