A festive evening outside the iconic Mysuru Palace turned tragic on Thursday when a massive explosion from a helium gas cylinder ripped through the area, leaving one person dead and four others injured. The incident occurred around 8:30 PM near the main entry gate, sending shockwaves through the crowded tourist spot.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The explosion originated from a jumbo cylinder used to fill balloons with helium. The cylinder was being operated by a 42-year-old balloon seller, who tragically lost his life in the blast. Police sources have confirmed that foul play is not suspected, but the identity and other details of the deceased man are yet to be officially released.
The force of the explosion was immense, with the sound of the blast reportedly heard from a distance of over one kilometer. At the time of the incident, the main palace gate was closed for visitors. However, the area outside was bustling, and numerous tourists were inside the illuminated palace grounds enjoying a flower show and musical event organized by the Mysuru Palace Board as part of the winter festival.
Victims and Immediate Aftermath
Four individuals, mostly tourists, sustained serious injuries in the explosion. Lakshmi from Bengaluru is said to be in a critical condition following the incident. The other injured have been identified as Manjula from Nanjangud, Kotresh Gutte from Ranebennur, and Shalina Shabbir from Kolkata.
Emergency services responded swiftly. Within minutes, police personnel rushed to the spot and all the injured were rushed to KR Hospital in Mysuru for urgent medical treatment. Forensic experts also quickly arrived at the scene to gather evidence and piece together the exact sequence of events.
Investigation and Official Response
City Police Commissioner Seema Latkar personally visited the site to assess the situation and oversee the initial investigation. The high tourist footfall in Mysuru, owing to the holiday season and winter festival, added to the gravity of the situation. Authorities are working to determine the precise cause of the cylinder's failure, focusing on standard safety protocols for handling such gas containers in crowded public spaces.
The tragic event has cast a shadow over the festive celebrations, raising urgent questions about the regulation of street vendors using potentially hazardous materials near major tourist attractions. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to provide support to the victims and their families.
