Transformer Blast Near Cinema Hall Injures Five in Ghaziabad
A sudden transformer explosion rocked the Khoda area of Ghaziabad on Friday afternoon. The incident occurred near the popular Kavita Palace Cinema Hall in Azad Vihar around 12:30 PM. At least five people sustained burn injuries in the dangerous blast.
Eyewitnesses Describe Terrifying Scene
According to multiple eyewitness accounts, the electricity metering unit installed by the power department exploded violently. The transformer, which uses oil for cooling purposes, burst into flames immediately after the explosion. Hot oil spilled across the road surface, creating a hazardous situation for anyone nearby.
Kamlesh Kumar Chaudhary experienced the most dramatic escape from the incident. A video circulating on social media platforms shows him rushing out of a narrow lane while screaming for help. His head appeared to be on fire during those terrifying moments.
"I was simply buying biryani near the cinema hall when everything happened," Chaudhary explained from his hospital bed. "There was a sudden blast and the fire got to me immediately. I kept shouting for help but no one came forward initially. Finally, I jumped into a nearby drain to put out the flames." He suffered serious burn injuries requiring ongoing medical treatment.
Multiple Victims Affected by Hot Oil Spillage
Atul Mathur, another injured person who works at a shop near the explosion site, shared his experience. "I was sitting outside my shop when the explosion took place," Mathur recalled. "Hot oil fell on me right after the blast, causing these burn injuries."
The complete list of injured individuals includes:
- Kamlesh Kumar Chaudhary
- Pankaj
- Arun
- Atul Mathur
- One additional person whose identity hasn't been fully confirmed
Local residents and passers-by acted quickly after the explosion. They transported all injured people to different hospitals for immediate medical attention. Police officials confirmed that all victims currently maintain stable conditions.
Residents Point to Maintenance Negligence
People living in the area expressed strong concerns about safety standards. They alleged that the metering unit lacked proper covering and regular maintenance. According to local accounts, authorities installed a large transformer inside the cinema hall premises itself.
The roadside mini transformer served specific purposes. It took electricity readings and helped prevent potential power theft activities. However, residents believe negligence in implementing basic safety measures directly caused the dangerous accident.
Official Response and Investigation
A senior official from the power department addressed the situation. "We have handed over the inquiry to our executive engineer," the official stated. "Our department will provide all necessary assistance to the injured people during their recovery."
Police authorities received information about the incident from the electricity department. They indicated that formal actions would proceed after receiving an official complaint about the transformer explosion. The investigation aims to determine the exact causes behind the equipment failure.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about electrical safety infrastructure in urban areas. It raises important questions about maintenance protocols for public utility equipment installed near crowded locations like cinema halls and market areas.
