Bhubaneswar, 03 January (H.S.): A woman sustained critical burn injuries after a gas cylinder exploded while she was cooking on the terrace of her house in the Patrapada area under Sunahata police limits in Balasore town on Saturday.

According to sources, the woman was preparing food on a gas stove when the cylinder suddenly exploded, causing severe burns to her upper body. Hearing her screams, neighbours rushed to the spot and immediately alerted the authorities.

She was first admitted to the Balasore District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) for emergency treatment. However, due to the seriousness of her condition, she was later shifted to a specialised medical facility in Cuttack for advanced care.

Police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the incident. Preliminary inquiries indicate that improper handling, a possible gas leak, or the use of an old or faulty cylinder may have led to the explosion. Meanwhile, authorities have advised residents to ensure proper installation of gas cylinders and to refrain from using stoves near open flames if any gas leakage is suspected.

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda