Fatal Cylinder Explosion in Fatehpur Destroys Building, Claims Four Lives

Fatehpur, September 28 (Daily Kiran) : A devastating explosion occurred on Monday evening in Fatehpur, Uttar Pradesh, collapsing the upper two floors of a fruit merchant’s home. The blast, which took place around 5:30 PM, resulted in the deaths of four individuals and left three others injured, with one in critical condition requiring ventilator support.

Local police received the emergency alert and quickly arrived at the scene. However, the narrow alleyways prevented fire brigade vehicles from reaching the site. Rescue operations were initiated using JCB machinery to clear the debris. Approximately 16 police and fire department personnel, along with local volunteers, worked tirelessly to locate those trapped under the rubble. Seven individuals were successfully rescued and transported to the medical college in Fatehpur, where four were pronounced dead.

Superintendent of Police Abhimanyu Manglik confirmed that four fatalities had been recorded among the seven rescued. One victim suffered severe burns, with over 90% of his body affected, and remains in critical condition. The other two injured individuals are reported to be stable. Preliminary investigations revealed that a gas cylinder explosion was likely responsible for the blast, with four cylinders found at the site—two of which are believed to have exploded. The exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation by forensic and fire department teams.

The explosion caused significant structural damage, collapsing two floors of the main building and affecting nearby structures, though no additional casualties were reported. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been called in to assist with the rescue efforts. Authorities are ensuring adequate lighting for nighttime operations, with arrangements made for additional lighting if necessary.

Rescue operations will continue in search of any further victims who may be trapped in the debris. The homeowner, Surendra Gupta, also known as Dhunnar Gupta, has experienced a health crisis due to shock and is receiving medical attention. Police and administrative teams remain on-site as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the explosion proceed.