Explosion and Fire at Noida Restaurant Injures Four, Including Minor
An explosion and subsequent fire at a restaurant in Noida's Coco County Society on Friday afternoon resulted in injuries to at least four individuals, including a minor. The incident, which occurred around 12:40 PM, is believed to have been caused by a cylinder leak, although a thorough investigation is still in progress to confirm the exact cause.
Details of the Incident and Response
According to Chief Fire Officer Pradeep Kumar Choubey, the fire department received an alert about a cylinder blast that ignited a fire at the Food Plaza located in Sector 10's Coco County Society. The explosion was accompanied by a loud noise that shattered the restaurant's glass windows, creating a scene of chaos and panic in the area.
Police and fire officials arrived promptly at the scene, initiating immediate rescue operations. The blaze was successfully controlled using the building's internal firefighting system, preventing further damage and potential casualties.
Injuries and Aftermath
The injured individuals include two restaurant employees who suffered burns, as well as a woman and her child who were hurt while fleeing the scene. All four victims received first aid and are reported to be out of danger, according to official statements.
Residents of the society described hearing the blast from a considerable distance, which prompted many to evacuate their flats in a state of alarm. Panic briefly gripped the neighborhood before authorities managed to restore calm and order.
Ongoing Investigations and Accountability
An investigation into the gas leak and the restaurant's adherence to safety standards is currently underway. Officials are questioning the restaurant management to assess compliance with safety protocols and determine any lapses that may have contributed to the incident.
Further actions, including potential legal or regulatory measures, will be decided based on the findings of the investigation. The focus remains on ensuring such incidents are prevented in the future through stricter safety enforcement.
