LPG cylinder blast leaves two critically injured in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: An LPG cylinder blast at a house in Bommasandra near Anekal on Bengaluru's southern outskirts left two people critically injured and caused extensive damage to the building, the police said on Monday.

The explosion, which occurred on the third floor of the building, was so intense that the outer wall of the house was blown apart, scattering debris onto the street below and damaging nearby cars and bikes. Neighbouring houses also sustained damage to walls and windows due to the impact of the flying debris.

The injured, identified as Sunil Joseph and Vishwa, both suffered burns covering more than 60% of their bodies. Originally from Kerala, they have been residing in Bengaluru for the past five years and work as lab assistants at Narayana Hrudayalaya.

CK Baba, Superintendent of Police (Bengaluru Rural), said the explosion was caused by a gas leak that accumulated overnight. The blast was triggered by a spark from a light switch.

"One of them went to make tea and switched on the light, which caused a spark and led to the explosion," Baba said.

Both victims are in a critical condition, the police added.