Death toll rise to two in Gokak factory blast

Belgaum, May 5 (UNI) The death toll in the starch factory fire mishap in Gokak town in this district today rose to two, while 14 workers who suffered serious burns continued to be in critical condition.

According to state police, the explosion took place last night in the maze starch plant of Riddi Siddi factory. In all, 34 persons were injured, out of whom 27 sustained serious burns and were admitted to a hospital here. Among these, 14 people continued to be in a critical condition.

Social Welfare Minister Balchandra Jarakiholi visited the factory today.

Speaking to UNI, SP Hemant Nimbalkar said the exact cause of the blast was not yet ascertained and various government agencies were conducting investigations.

However, steam build up in the boiler was suspected to be the cause of the the blast.

UNI