10 Injured in Temple Firecracker Blast in Kendrapara

Kendrapara: At least ten people, including four children, sustained injuries following a firecracker explosion during a temple consecration ceremony at Gulnagar village in Kendrapara district on Thursday.

According to sources, the mishap occurred during a ‘kalash’ procession organised as part of the temple inauguration rituals. The event had drawn a large gathering, with over a hundred women and children from nearby villages participating in the religious celebrations, creating a festive atmosphere in the area.

The situation turned chaotic when firecrackers being burst during the procession suddenly exploded, injuring several participants standing close to the spot. Panic gripped the gathering as people scrambled for safety immediately after the blast.

Local residents and volunteers rushed to assist the injured and shifted them to the District Headquarters Hospital in Kendrapara for treatment. Hospital authorities confirmed that ten persons, including four minors, were admitted and are currently under medical supervision. The condition of the injured is reported to be stable.

Officials are likely to probe the circumstances leading to the explosion and examine whether adequate safety measures were in place during the procession.

Further details are awaited.