INDORE: Several people were injured after an underground gas pipeline exploded during drilling work in the central Indian city of Indore on Tuesday, authorities said.
The explosion occurred in the Suman Nagar area after a pipeline was allegedly damaged during drilling operations, leading to a gas leak that later ignited, police said.
The injured were taken to a hospital for treatment. Among them was a social media influencer who was passing through the area when the fire broke out, according to local officials.
Witnesses said flames erupted suddenly from the ground, triggering panic among residents. Firefighters and police officers responded to the scene and brought the blaze under control.
Officials from the gas distribution company said the incident disrupted supply to thousands of households in nearby neighbourhoods. Repair work was underway and efforts were being made to restore service as quickly as possible.
The company alleged that excavation work had been carried out without prior permission and said warning signs marking the presence of a high-pressure gas pipeline had been installed in the area.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion.
