Fatehgarh Sahib, 06 November (H.S.): A tragic industrial accident took place in Punjab's industrial town of Mandi Gobindgarh on Thursday night when a massive explosion occurred while an old tanker filled with tar was being cut with a gas cutter. The incident took place at the scrap yard of Bhalla Engineers on Amloh Road, claiming the life of the factory owner, Daljit Kumar Bhalla, popularly known as DK Bhalla. Four workers, including a woman, sustained serious burn injuries.

According to initial information, the workers were cutting an old tanker purchased as scrap. It is suspected that accumulated gas inside the tanker triggered the explosion. The powerful blast was heard across the surrounding area, while flames quickly spread through the scrap yard, creating panic.

Reports suggest that DK Bhalla was recording a video of the tanker-cutting operation when the explosion occurred. He was caught in the blast and died on the spot. Workers present nearby were also struck by hot tar and flames, leaving them severely injured.

The injured have been identified as Barjesh (32), Dashrath Yadav, son of Joginder Yadav, Poonam Devi, wife of Dashrath Yadav, and Inder Kumar, son of Ramrasile. They were initially rushed to the Civil Hospital in Mandi Gobindgarh. Due to the seriousness of their injuries, they were referred to hospitals in Chandigarh and Patiala. Barjesh is reportedly in critical condition.

Fire brigade teams rushed to the spot after receiving information and managed to bring the fire under control. Doctors at the Civil Hospital confirmed that five patients had been brought in following the incident, including one who was already dead. One critically injured patient was referred to Chandigarh, while three workers, including a woman, were shifted to Rajindra Hospital in Patiala.

The incident has also raised serious concerns about industrial safety at scrap yards. Fire department personnel reportedly stated that the premises did not have a Fire No Objection Certificate (Fire NOC). Officials said the matter would be investigated and appropriate action would be taken under the applicable rules. The investigation is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the explosion and the safety arrangements at the scrap yard.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH