Over 20 Injured in Firecracker Explosion at Odisha’s Jagannath Festival.

Over 20 devotees sustained burn injuries after firecrackers exploded during Lord Jagannath’s Chandan Yatra festival in Puri, Odisha, on Wednesday night.

More than 20 devotees endured burn injuries following a firecracker explosion during Lord Jagannath’s Chandan Yatra festival in Puri, Odisha, on Wednesday night. Several injured individuals are reportedly in critical condition.

The incident occurred during the ‘Chapa Khela’ event of the Trinity at Narendra pond as part of the Chandan Yatra celebrations. A large gathering of devotees had assembled to witness the water sports in the holy pond when sparks from the ignited crackers descended upon them. Promptly, all injured individuals were transported to the district headquarters hospital. However, due to the hospital’s lack of a dedicated burn unit, they were subsequently referred to other facilities. Eighteen critically injured patients were shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. Additional patients were transferred to hospitals in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar for specialized care.

Puri SP Pinak Mishra emphasized, “Our first priority is shifting the patients to the hospital. Patients are being shifted, and the burn unit of SCB has been contacted for treatment.” Local residents expressed dismay over the insufficient medical response, citing a shortage of doctors at the district hospital.

In response to the incident, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed his condolences, stating, “Sorry to hear about the accident near Puri Narendra pond. The Chief Secretary and the district administration have been directed to ensure proper treatment of the injured and monitor their treatment. All the medical expenses of the injured will be borne from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. Wishing everyone a speedy recovery.”

Police officers and district officials visited the hospital to oversee the situation and ensure that the injured received necessary medical attention.