Gas Cylinder Explosion Rocks Ahmedabad's Naranpura Area, Five Suffer Severe Burns
A devastating gas cylinder explosion occurred in the Chamundanagar area of Naranpura, Ahmedabad, on Tuesday morning, resulting in five individuals sustaining severe burns and causing widespread structural damage to the affected house and neighboring properties. The blast, which took place around 5 am, sent shockwaves through the residential locality, with residents describing the sound as resembling a bomb explosion.
Powerful Blast Causes Extensive Damage and Panic
The force of the explosion was so intense that it ripped the iron door off the house and propelled it across the street into another residence. The blast shattered windows in at least two nearby houses, jolting residents from their sleep and creating panic throughout the neighborhood. Moments after the explosion, five occupants of the house emerged with severe burns, running toward the road and pleading for immediate assistance.
Neighbors quickly mobilized to help the injured and attempted to contain the spreading fire until emergency responders could arrive on the scene. Four of the five injured individuals have been identified as Raju Prajapati (35), Hira Prajapati (45), Manilal Kumawat (46), and Sohan Kumar (50).
Local Residents Play Crucial Role in Rescue Operations
Local residents demonstrated remarkable courage and quick thinking during the crisis. They immediately shifted the injured victims to hospitals using 108 ambulances, even before fire brigade teams reached the location. "We did whatever we could. First, we helped the injured and then tried to control the fire," explained a resident who participated in the rescue efforts.
The explosion completely gutted the house, destroying numerous household items including clothes, bedding, groceries, footwear, and electronic equipment. The structure itself suffered significant damage, with walls cracking and plaster peeling off due to the force of the blast. Nearby homes also sustained damage, primarily broken window panes, and residents reported feeling structural vibrations from the explosion.
Possible Gas Leak Under Investigation as Cause
Preliminary investigation suggests that a gas leak may have led to the catastrophic explosion. A stove found at the scene showed signs of damage, and investigators suspect one of its knobs may have been left open overnight, allowing gas to accumulate within the house. A spark, possibly from an electrical source in the morning, is believed to have triggered the blast.
A team from the Forensic Science Laboratory has been called in to conduct a thorough examination and determine the exact cause of the explosion. Officials have confirmed that a detailed scientific investigation is currently underway. Authorities are also working to ascertain details about the occupants and ownership of the house, including whether the victims were tenants or owners.
Eyewitnesses Describe Terrifying Moments
Eyewitnesses provided chilling accounts of the moments following the explosion. "We heard a terrifying sound, like a bomb blast. It shook the entire area," recounted one resident. Another eyewitness stated, "When we opened the door, we saw people running out of the house with severe burns. We immediately rushed to help them."
Concerned about potential further explosions, residents took proactive measures by removing gas cylinders from nearby houses and attempting to douse the flames using whatever resources were available to them.
Recent Similar Incidents in Ahmedabad
This tragic incident follows several other gas-related emergencies in Ahmedabad in recent months:
- January 11, 2026 – Bhimjipura, near Vadaj: An LPG cylinder blast triggered a fire in a residential area, affecting multiple residents though no injuries were reported.
- December 14, 2025 – Satyam Nagar: A cylinder leak explosion killed two siblings and critically injured their mother during cooking, with fire spreading rapidly inside the house and highlighting the deadly risks of indoor gas leaks.
- May 22, 2025 – Purvi Tower, Gurukul Road: An AC blast triggered a fire followed by two cylinder explosions, resulting in over 20 residents being rescued from a high-rise building with no casualties but significant damage to two flats.
The Ahmedabad gas cylinder explosion serves as a stark reminder of the importance of gas safety measures in residential areas and the critical need for regular maintenance and proper handling of gas appliances to prevent such tragedies.
