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Mohali, August 6:
A high-intensity blast ripped through an oxygen manufacturing facility in the Industrial Area, Phase 9, Mohali, on Wednesday morning, killing two people and injuring three others.
SDM Damandeep Kaur confirmed the fatalities, identifying the deceased as Asif (28) and Devinder. Officials said at least 25 workers were present inside the unit, owned by High Tech Gases Private Limited, when the incident occurred.
Police did not rule out the possibility of a gas leak triggering the explosion. As a precautionary measure, nearby buildings were evacuated. “We are investigating all angles, including safety lapses and the possibility of mechanical failure,” said a senior police officer.
Impact Felt Kilometres Away
The force of the blast was so powerful that window panes of the administration block and adjoining buildings shattered, and oxygen cylinders were flung across the premises. Debris landed as far as Kambala village, about 1 km from the site. Locals reported seeing mutilated body parts strewn at the site, underscoring the severity of the incident.
Emergency Response
Multiple fire tenders, police teams, and ambulances rushed to the spot, initiating rescue and relief operations. The injured workers were taken to nearby hospitals. Authorities cordoned off the area for forensic analysis.
The affected company, High Tech Gases Pvt Ltd, is a key supplier of medical oxygen to the PGI Chandigarh and other government hospitals in the region, making the incident especially concerning given the critical nature of its operations.
Probe Ordered
An inquiry has been launched to ascertain whether the explosion was caused by equipment malfunction, human error, or a structural safety issue. “Strict action will be taken if any safety norms were violated,” said SDM Kaur.
