In what could be termed unprecedented, a major explosion took place in Karnataka’s Shivamogga. It was learnt that a truck carrying around 50 dynamites had exploded while it was being transported to a quarry in the area. According to officials, the blast had happened at around 10:30 pm on Thursday. Around 8 people lost their lives in the explosion and it is feared that the death toll might increase further.
Pained by the loss of lives in Shivamogga. Condolences to the bereaved families. Praying that the injured recover soon. The State Government is providing all possible assistance to the affected: PM @narendramodi
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) January 22, 2021
The blast intensity was so high that people in districts of Davangere and Chikmagalur, which is close to Shivamogga, ran out of their homes mistaking it for an earthquake. Several witnesses also reported of shattered windowpanes and cracks on roads due to the blast in the region. Several people in a state of shock were also seen running around panicked. Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa has taken stock of the situation and has ordered an investigation into the incident. PM Narendra Modi too expressed shock and condoled the loss of lives in the explosion.
