Ghaziabad, UP: A massive fire broke out in a truck carrying LPG cylinders in the Loni area of Ghaziabad early Saturday morning, triggering a series of powerful explosions. Over 60 gas cylinders exploded one after another, sending shockwaves across a 3-kilometer radius. The incident caused widespread panic, with residents rushing out of their homes in fear. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far.

How the Incident Unfolded

Chief Fire Officer Rahul Pal told PTI that the truck was transporting LPG cylinders from Bharat Gas Filling Plant to Ghaziabad when it caught fire around 4 AM. The fire is suspected to have been caused by friction within the cylinders.

Seeing the fire, the truck driver parked the vehicle near a petrol pump, further increasing the risk. As the flames intensified, over 60 cylinders exploded, with some flying into nearby shops, igniting at least four to five furniture stores.

Firefighters Contain the Blaze

The fire department dispatched eight fire tenders to the scene. After 90 minutes of intense firefighting efforts, the fire was brought under control. Some vehicles and roadside structures were damaged, but no injuries have been reported.

According to eyewitnesses, the deafening explosions woke up residents in the middle of the night. Fearing a major disaster, many fled their homes. Fortunately, the fire did not spread to the nearby petrol pump, preventing a potential catastrophe.

Demand for Investigation

Local BJP MLA Nand Kishore Gurjar has called for an investigation, demanding strict action against gas refilling plant officials if negligence is found. He warned that such incidents could threaten Hindon Airbase, which is only 1 KM away from the explosion site.

Former Loni MLA Madan Bhaiya also raised concerns, alleging that safety norms are being ignored at the petroleum plants in the Tila Mor area, making densely populated areas vulnerable to disasters.

Cause of Fire Still Unclear

Authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the fire. However, this incident has raised serious safety concerns regarding the handling and transportation of LPG cylinders in populated areas.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.