What led to massive explosion at petrol pump near Raj Bhavan?

Bhubaneswar: The massive explosion at the petrol pump near Raj Bhavan here yesterday was occurred during refilling of CNG gas at  the filling station. Deputy Chief Comptroller of Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) informed  this today.

The filling station had 4.5 tonne CNG gas and 10,000 litre water in its tank when the mishap took place. After reloading of hydrogen and nitrogen gas, when the staff were refilling the CNG gas tank, the explosion happened due to leakage, he said.

“An inquiry has been initiated at the site by the department. The injured persons will be questioned once they recover,” he added.

Earlier yesterday, Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan ordered the Ministry’s Secretary to submit a report as early as possible after conducting a probe into the incident.

Meanwhile, Police Commissioner Sudhanshu Sarangi today said scientific investigation has begun into the incident. “Four people were at work for refilling of CNG gas. But whereabouts of one Seemanchal Parida, a native of Ganjam district, has not been ascertained yet. DNA test of flesh pieces recovered from the site of mishap will be sent for DNA test,” said the CP.

Meanwhile, one of the critically-injured workers admitted at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack succumbed to burn injuries, another is undergoing treatment at a private hospital here, Sarangi said, adding that restriction imposed in the area adjacent to the mishap site will be lifted by this evening.