MP: 20 feared dead in gas cylinder explosion

Jhabua (MP), Sep 12: At least 20 people were feared dead and as many injured when a cooking gas cylinder exploded today at a restaurant in Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh, police said.

The blast took place around 8.30 AM in a building housing the restaurant situated in Petlawad town, about 60 kms from the district headquarters, Sub Divisional Officer of Police (SDOP), Petlawad, A R Khan told PTI.

"Nearly 15-20 people are feared dead in the mishap and as many were injured," he said. Many others are suspected to be trapped in the debris, the SDOP said, adding that the exact number of casualties will be known once the debris is cleared.

Also, the gas cylinder explosion has caused damages to a number of adjacent buildings, he said. Senior officials from Jhabua have rushed to the spot to launch rescue operations. Also, State Tribal Welfare Minister Antar Singh Arya is expected to reach the site soon.

PTI