Oxygen tanker blast at Gwalior factory wrecks truck too, families run from homes

A tanker carrying oxygen blew up with a thunderous noise at a factory in Gwalior on Friday. The blast set off panic in the surrounding neighbourhoods, and the sound travelled several kilometres.

The explosion took place inside Shiva Compressed Air Products, an oxygen cylinder plant in the Pintu Park Industrial Area. The tanker was reportedly standing within the factory premises when it went up. The force tore the tanker apart and also wrecked a truck that was parked close by. Twisted metal and broken vehicle parts were strewn across the compound afterwards, and the state of both vehicles showed how violent the blast had been.

People who live in the residential colonies near the plant said the noise was so heavy that it left their ears numb. Many ran out of their houses at once. Fearing a second explosion, a number of families left the colony altogether and moved to places further from the factory, in what residents described as a scene of chaos and alarm.

Once word of the incident spread, a large crowd began collecting around the spot. Many of those present, wary of another blast, kept a safe distance from the plant.

The factory stands close to homes, and that has revived questions about the safety of families living beside industrial units. Residents said the incident has renewed worry over fire and explosion safety in Gwalior's industrial areas. They added that a far bigger tragedy could have followed if the force of the blast had reached nearby houses. Some also asked how closely the administration monitors factories and checks their safety standards.

No official confirmation has been issued so far of anyone being killed or injured. The cause of the explosion is not yet known. The administration and the departments concerned are expected to inquire into the incident, and only then will the reason for the blast and the full extent of the damage become clear.