Kashmir Blast: Nine Killed in Accidental Explosion at Police Station
Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmir – At least nine people were killed and multiple others injured in an accidental explosion at a police station in Nowgam, near Srinagar, on Tuesday, officials said. The blast, which occurred at the nowgam police station, caused severe damage to the building and impacted nearby structures.
Authorities have ruled out foul play,with the police chief stating,”Any other speculation into the cause of this incident is needless.”
According to a police statement, the explosion engulfed multiple vehicles in flames, reducing them to charred husks and scattering debris across the area. The force of the blast was significant, with recovered body parts found as far as 100-200 meters from the police station, a source told Reuters.
The majority of the victims were police officers. Forensic personnel, two crime scene photographers, and a tailor working with the team were also among those killed or injured.
Manoj Sinha, the Lieutenant Governor of the region, expressed his condolences and announced a full examination. “I have ordered a probe to ascertain the cause of the accidental explosion,” Sinha wrote on social media. “Deeply anguished by the loss of precious lives due to extremely tragic accidental blast at Nowgam police station in Srinagar.My condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for speedy recovery of the injured.”
The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in Indian-administered Kashmir, a region long disputed between India and Pakistan. While authorities maintain this was an accident, the region has seen decades of insurgency and violence. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
