A stall storing kites and firecrackers at AUDA’s plot in the South Bopal, Ahmedabad, was gutted in fire caused by a cylinder blast in the early hours of Monday.
Residents in the surrounding area were jolted awake at around 2.45 am by the sound of a loud explosion, followed by flames and repeated bursts of firecrackers, which could be heard from a considerable distance. The incident triggered panic among locals, many of whom rushed out of their homes to assess the situation.
Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported.
AUDA’s plot, located near the SoBo Centre intersection in South Bopal, houses several temporary sheds used for seasonal businesses. According to sources, emergency services were alerted shortly after the explosion. Fire officers, along with firefighting staff and vehicles including fire engines and water bowsers, were immediately dispatched to the site.
A fire officer involved in the operation said the blaze spread rapidly due to the presence of highly flammable materials. “The stall was gutted within minutes as it contained kites and firecrackers,” the officer said.
A nearby vegetable stall sustained minor damage, while firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control and prevent it from spreading further.
Investigations into the exact cause of the cylinder blast are ongoing.