New Delhi: A major explosion at a CNG station in Tikri Kalan on the outskirts of Delhi on Wednesday afternoon left one person dead and five others seriously injured.
The incident took place at a CNG station operated by Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) near Tikri Kalan Metro Station. According to preliminary information, the explosion occurred while a truck carrying gas cylinders had arrived at the station for CNG refuelling.
The blast triggered a fire and caused panic at the station, with people rushing to safety after hearing the powerful explosion.
Blast During Refuelling
According to police and fire department officials, information about the incident was received between approximately 3:37 pm and 3:46 pm.
The truck was reportedly undergoing refuelling when one of the cylinders attached to it suddenly exploded. The impact of the blast was reportedly heard across the surrounding area.
A fire broke out immediately after the explosion, prompting an emergency response from the Delhi Fire Service.
One Killed, Five Seriously Injured
The employee who was reportedly involved in the gas-filling operation at the time of the blast was among those affected.
According to the Outer Delhi DCP, six people were injured in the incident, one of whom later died. The remaining five injured people have been shifted to a nearby hospital and are reportedly in serious condition.
The identity of the deceased and the injured is yet to be officially detailed.
Multiple Fire Tenders Sent to Spot
Following the emergency call, several fire service vehicles were dispatched to the CNG station, including water tenders, fire tenders and a Quick Response Vehicle.
Fire department officials, including ADO Rajiv Sinha, STO Rajendra and Station Officer Subhash, were involved in the emergency response.
Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control and prevent the situation from escalating further.
Police and Forensic Teams Begin Investigation
Police and forensic teams have reached the site and begun examining the circumstances surrounding the explosion.
Investigators are looking into several possible causes, including a gas leak, technical failure in a cylinder or equipment, or a possible lapse during the refuelling process.
The truck and equipment at the CNG station are being examined as part of the investigation. The exact cause of the blast has not yet been established.
Area Secured, Witnesses Questioned
Police have secured the area around the station and are questioning eyewitnesses to establish the sequence of events.
Investigators are also expected to examine available evidence from the site and assess whether all prescribed safety procedures were being followed during the refuelling operation.
Safety Concerns Around High-Pressure Gas Systems
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of stringent safety protocols at CNG facilities.
CNG systems operate under high pressure, making regular inspection, equipment maintenance and strict adherence to refuelling procedures critical for preventing accidents.
Authorities are expected to determine whether any safety violation or equipment failure contributed to the incident. Further action will depend on the findings of the investigation.
For now, the administration’s focus remains on the treatment of the injured, support for the deceased worker’s family and determining the precise cause of the explosion.