Bhubaneswar, May 12: A major fire broke out in Balaramgadi, under the jurisdiction of the Balasore Marine Police Station, on Monday, after eight LPG cylinders exploded simultaneously in a local shop, causing chaos and widespread destruction.

According to initial reports, the fire was triggered by a short circuit inside the premises of an unlicensed LPG dealer, highlighting serious lapses in safety compliance. The explosion led to a massive blaze that quickly spread to adjoining shops, destroying property and prompting panic among residents and shopkeepers in the area.

Fire brigade teams rushed to the scene, battling the flames for hours to contain the inferno and prevent further damage. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far, but the extent of property loss is still being assessed.

Authorities have launched a formal investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the incident and to determine whether criminal negligence was involved.

The incident has sparked fresh concerns about illegal gas cylinder trade and the lack of regulatory oversight, with citizens demanding stricter enforcement of safety norms to avoid similar disasters in the future.

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