8 killed, 20 injured as transformer explodes
JAIPUR TRAGEDY The blast took place when a family was passing by the transformer in Shahpura town in the district
JAIPUR: Eight people were killed and 20 injured when a transformer exploded at Khatulai village near Shahpura town in Jaipur Tuesday afternoon.
State power minister Pushpendra Singh ordered an inquiry into the incident.
“We have set up a committee to look into cause of the blast...Usually this kind of thing (blast in transformers) never happens,” the minister said.
Late in the evening, the government announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the kin of the deceased.
SP Jaipur (rural) Dr Rameshwar Singh told HT that five people, including a minor, died on the spot. Eighteen people were referred to SMS Hospital and others sent to a local government hospital for treatment.
SMS Hospital superintendent Dr D S Meena said that all the victims were women and children and one child was brought dead. Two more victims succumbed to their injuries during treatment.
Two people were discharged after first aid and remaining are being treated for burn injuries.
The massive explosion took place when the members of a family, who were part of a marriage procession, were passing by the transformer, police said.
Eyewitnesses said that scalding oil fell on the women and children and their clothes immediately caught fire.
Saddened by the unfortunate incident at Shahpura near Jaipur. Took feedback and directed officials to take necessary measures and action VASUNDHARA RAJE, Chief minister on Twitter
An enraged mob gathered at the site and police and administrative officials had a tough time controlling the situation.
Officials of the power department rushed to the spot. The reason behind the blast could not be ascertained at the time of going to press.
Chief minister Vasundhara Raje visited SMS hospital while health minister Kalicharan Saraf announced free treatment for the injured. “Saddened by the unfortunate incident at Shahpura near Jaipur. Took feedback and directed officials to take necessary measures and action,” Raje said in a tweet.
Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot too expressed grief. “My heartfelt condolences to families of victims, may God give them strength to bear loss.. may departed souls rip...Prayers for the injured,” tweeted Gehlot.