Toilet Tragedy: 35% Burns for 20-Year-Old After Explosion in Greater Noida Home
Noida (The Uttam Hindu): A 20-year-old man suffered burn injuries after an explosion occurred in the toilet at his home in Sector 36 of Greater Noida, leading to a fire. The incident took place on May 3 when the victim, a Class 12 student named Ashu Nagar, was using the western-style toilet and flushed it, causing a sudden and intense blast.
Cause of the Explosion
The family members of the victim claim that the explosion was caused by the accumulation of methane gas in the sewer line, possibly due to choked drains. However, officials who inspected the sewage system reported no issues, suggesting that the problem might have originated within the internal plumbing of the house. Ashu suffered burns on his face, hands and feet, with burn injuries covering 35-40% of his body. He is currently undergoing treatment at the Government Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS).
Investigation and Demands
Officials from the local authority visited the family and sought 10 days to complete their investigation into the incident. Residents of the area alleged that the methane extraction pipes installed by the authority were non-functional and demanded immediate repairs to the sewer line and the installation of proper vent pipes to prevent gas buildup.
Concerns Over Sewer Line Maintenance
Locals pointed out that a portion of the sewer line near the P-3 roundabout has been broken for over a year and a half, despite several complaints, no action has been taken. The authority's Senior Manager, AP Verma, stated that the sewer line system is functioning properly, suggesting the explosion may have occurred due to an internal issue within the house. However, residents are demanding action to ensure the safety of the sewer system.
Experts warn that toilet explosions, although rare, can occur due to poor ventilation, faulty plumbing or improper maintenance of sewage systems. They recommend regular inspections and ensuring adequate ventilation in bathrooms to prevent such incidents.
Safety Precautions
To avoid similar incidents, residents are advised to:
1. Ensure good ventilation in bathrooms
2. Regularly inspect and maintain plumbing systems
3. Be cautious of unusual odors or signs of gas leaks
4. Consult professionals for regular maintenance of sewage and drainage systems