A loud explosion shook the vicinity of the Nalagarh Police Station in Himachal Pradesh's Solan district on Thursday morning, causing significant damage to nearby structures but resulting in no injuries or loss of life. The blast, which occurred on land situated behind the police station premises, sent shockwaves through the area, shattering window panes of the investigation room and other buildings.
Impact and Immediate Aftermath
The force of the detonation was substantial, with its impact felt across a radius of 40 to 50 metres. The intensity was further evidenced by a small crater formed at the epicentre of the blast. Vinod Dhiman, the Superintendent of Police for Baddi, confirmed that the explosion did not take place on police department property but on adjacent land where there is a significant accumulation of garbage. He noted that a few trees in the vicinity sustained partial damage from the shockwave.
The sudden, loud sound triggered panic among local residents, who rushed towards the site. Police personnel responded swiftly, cordoning off the area to restrict public movement and ensure safety. Senior officials conducted a preliminary inspection of the site, and additional forces were deployed as a precautionary measure.
Investigation Launched, Cause Unclear
Authorities have initiated a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause and nature of the explosion. Forensic experts from the State Forensic Science Laboratory have collected samples from the blast site for thorough examination. SP Vinod Dhiman stated that while the precise cause is yet to be ascertained, the possibility of splinters or some explosive material being involved in the garbage heap cannot be ruled out at this initial stage.
The primary focus of the probe is to establish whether the blast was an accidental occurrence, perhaps due to combustible materials in the trash, or if it was caused by an external explosive device. The police are awaiting the forensic analysis and technical assessment of the collected evidence to draw definitive conclusions.
Area Secured, Probe Continues
Emphasising that no one was hurt in the incident, SP Dhiman assured that the area remains secured. The investigation is ongoing, with police combing through all possible angles. The incident has raised concerns about security and the management of waste in sensitive zones near critical infrastructure like police stations.
Further updates on the case are expected following the completion of the forensic report, which will provide crucial insights into the materials involved and the mechanics of the explosion near the Nalagarh Police Station.
