HYDERABAD: A devastating gas cylinder explosion in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, claimed the lives of a 19-year-old woman and a 14-month-old infant, while 14 others sustained burn injuries. The tragic incident occurred on April 7 around 4:30 PM in the Gulab Sagar area at the residence of Mohammad Sattar Chauhan.
The fire broke out when a gas leak led to a cylinder explosion during cooking. The resulting blaze quickly engulfed the three-storey building, filling it with flames and smoke.
Woman re-entered house for hijab
Firefighters and police rushed to the scene, where they managed to rescue 19-year-old Saadiya, who had been trapped in a second-floor room while offering prayers. However, after being brought out safely, Saadiya attempted to return to the room to retrieve her hijab, as she was undertaking the Umrah pilgrimage.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a charred door collapsed on her as she re-entered. She suffered severe burns and died on the way to the hospital.
Infant also among the deceased
The incident also claimed the life of a 14-month-old baby. Fourteen others were injured in the fire and are receiving treatment at a hospital, with the condition of two children reported as critical.
Umrah plans cut short
According to police, the family had been preparing to leave for Umrah on April 10, just days after the incident. Investigations into the cause and circumstances of the fire are ongoing.
The tragedy has shocked the local community and highlighted the devastating consequences of gas leaks and the dangers of re-entering burning buildings.
