At least four people were killed and over 10 critically injured when a powerful blast during a river festival ripped through an Indian district.The mishap occurred at around 7 PM Tuesday night when a gas cylinder used to inflate balloons exploded during river festival in Manalurpettai area of Kallakurichi district in Tamil Nadu state. As per officials, four persons died on the spot while nearly a dozen others are under treatment at hospital.

Thousands of people from nearby areas had gathered for the festival, and the explosion took place after cultural programmes ended and people were returning home.Parts of the gas cylinder hit people standing nearby, causing injuries to many. Receiving information, police rushed to the spot along with fire department personnel for rescue operations.

While the fire brigade team brought the blaze under control, the injured were shifted to the nearest government hospital in ambulances and private vehicles. Police said the process of identifying the deceased is currently under way. "Four people died on the spot. Some of the injured persons have suffered serious burns. We are collecting full details of those who died and were injured," said a senior police official.

Expressing grief over the loss of lives, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami said, "I am deeply distressed to learn the tragic news after a helium gas cylinder used to fill balloons exploded at the river festival held in Manalurpet, Kallakurichi District. I extend my deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family, and I pray to God that all those injured make a full recovery and return to their respective home soon."

"I also urge the state government to immediately provide appropriate compensation to the families of the deceased and to all those who were injured in the river festival accident," he stated.Meanwhile, police have registered a case and started an investigation to ascertain whether the gas cylinder was purchased with proper permission, and whether safety rules were followed or not. "We are investigating all angles. Whether the accident happened due to negligence is not known yet," added the police official.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)