NEW DELHI: A major road accident late Friday night near Mandiala village on the Hoshiarpur–Jalandhar highway left one person dead and at least 20 others severely burnt after an LPG tanker collided with a pickup truck, triggering a powerful explosion and fire.
According to preliminary reports, the incident may have been sparked when a car first struck the tanker, resulting in a gas leak that led to the explosion. The force of the blast ignited a fire that quickly spread across the area, which lies in an industrial zone that reportedly houses several migrant workers.
Emergency services, including multiple fire tenders, ambulances, and teams from the Punjab Police, responded swiftly. “The fire appears to have started due to a road accident involving a gas tanker. Several people suffered burn injuries and have been hospitalized. One fatality has been confirmed,” said Aashika Jain, Deputy Commissioner of Hoshiarpur. “Given the location, it is possible that some of the victims are migrant laborers,” she added.
Rescue Operations Underway
Rescue teams continued operations through the night as firefighters battled the flames. Medical teams are working to stabilize those with severe burns, many of whom remain in critical condition.
Punjab Minister Ravjot Singh visited the accident site and the hospital treating the victims. Speaking to the media, he confirmed one person had been brought in dead and pledged full government support for the injured and their families.
“A tragic and horrific accident has occurred. A small vehicle collided with the tanker, which then exploded due to a gas leak. The fire spread rapidly. We are still determining how many people might be missing. The situation is devastating and difficult to describe,” Singh said. “The government will provide all necessary compensation and ensure the best possible medical care for the injured.”
Authorities are still working to confirm the exact cause of the accident and assess the full extent of the damage.
