SRINAGAR: Panic gripped Kishtwar’s Astanbala area on late Wednesday evening after a massive gas cylinder blast occurred during a fire incident, sending debris flying and fuelling the blaze, as per several media reports.
Eyewitnesses as per Daily Excelsior said flames rapidly engulfed a structure before a sudden explosion shook the locality. Videos from the scene viral on social media showed thick plumes of black smoke billowing into the sky as the fire intensified.
Preliminary reports indicate that some people sustained injuries, and several houses suffered damage, though the exact number remains unconfirmed.
Fire tenders were rushed to the site and are currently engaged in efforts to douse the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to adjoining structures. Authorities have yet to ascertain the cause of the blaze or the extent of damage.
The situation remains tense in the area as residents gathered in large numbers.