Four children were seriously injured after a chemical drum used for road construction exploded in the Kharagachi area under the Bhangar police station, in West Bengal, on Tuesday evening.
According to police sources, road construction work was underway along a nearly 7-kilometre stretch from Ghatakpukur to Chutkir More. Several chemical drums related to the project had been kept by the roadside.
The explosion occurred suddenly with a loud noise, sending shockwaves through the area. At the time of the blast, four children were reportedly playing nearby and all four sustained severe injuries.
One of the injured children, identified as Sadiqul, allegedly jumped into a nearby pond in agony following the explosion. Local residents rushed to the spot upon hearing the blast and rescued the injured children. They were first taken to Nalmuri Block Hospital for treatment. As their condition worsened, the children were later shifted to MR Bangur Hospital for advanced medical care.
Police officials reached the scene soon after being informed. Preliminary investigations suggest that the explosion may have been triggered by a lit 'bidi' coming into contact with the chemical drum.
However, authorities have stated that the exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation. Further details are awaited.
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