Chemical Reaction, Not Crime, Caused Bidar Village Blast: Karnataka Police Investigation
The Karnataka Police have officially ruled out any criminal involvement in the recent explosion that rocked Molakera village in Bidar district, attributing the incident to a dangerous chemical reaction from improperly stored materials. This conclusion comes after a thorough investigation involving forensic and technical experts who examined the blast site meticulously.
Details of the Incident and Immediate Aftermath
The blast occurred around 8 am on Wednesday along the Molgi Marayya temple road, a time when schoolchildren were walking to their educational institutions. The force of the explosion was significant enough to throw nearby individuals to the ground, resulting in injuries to their hands, legs, and faces. Local residents acted swiftly, rushing the injured to the Humnabad government hospital for initial treatment before they were referred to the district hospital for more comprehensive care.
Police reports indicate that six people were injured in the incident, including schoolchildren. Among them, two individuals remain in critical condition and are undergoing intensive medical treatment, while the other four victims are now stable and out of immediate danger. The explosion initially caused considerable panic within Molakera village, prompting a rapid response from authorities.
Official Response and Investigation Findings
District In-Charge Minister Eshwar B Khandre took immediate notice of the situation, ordering a detailed inquiry into the blast. He directed the district administration to ensure that all injured persons received prompt medical attention and that the government would bear all treatment-related expenses, alleviating financial burdens on the affected families.
Police teams, accompanied by forensic experts and technical specialists, secured the area and conducted a thorough examination. A Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) team collected multiple samples from the site for detailed laboratory analysis to determine the exact cause of the explosion.
Pradeep Gunti, Superintendent of Police for Bidar, provided crucial insights during the investigation. He revealed that a similar minor explosion had occurred at the same household approximately ten months prior, indicating a pattern of chemical instability. "In both instances, we have come to the conclusion that the blast was caused by a chemical reaction," Gunti stated emphatically.
Root Cause: Improper Storage of Combustible Chemicals
According to police findings, the primary cause of the explosion was the long-term storage of paint residue and chemical thinners within the house. These materials had been kept for several years, and the occupant was reportedly unaware of their highly combustible nature. Investigators believe the explosion was triggered when these containers were being moved during a cleaning process, causing a reaction that led to the blast.
The police have emphasized that while all angles continue to be examined in the ongoing investigation, there is currently no evidence to suggest any deliberate or criminal intent behind the explosion. The focus remains on understanding the chemical dynamics and ensuring such incidents are prevented in the future through better awareness and safety measures regarding hazardous material storage.
This incident highlights the potential dangers of improper chemical storage in residential areas and underscores the importance of public awareness regarding the handling of combustible substances. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as the investigation progresses.
