Massive Explosion on Jalandhar-Hoshiarpur Highway: LPG Tanker Blast Kills 2, Injures Over 50

Hoshiarpur (The Uttam Hindu): A massive tragedy struck Punjab’s Hoshiarpur district late Friday night after an LPG-filled tanker exploded on the Jalandhar-Hoshiarpur National Highway near Mandiayala village. The incident occurred around 10:30 PM when a mini truck collided with the tanker, causing it to overturn and catch fire. Within minutes, the blaze spread rapidly, engulfing nearby shops and houses.

At least two people lost their lives in the accident, while over 50 suffered burn injuries, many of them between 30% to 80%. The injured were rushed to Hoshiarpur Civil Hospital, with several in critical condition being referred to advanced medical facilities. The identities of the deceased have not yet been confirmed.

The explosion and subsequent fire destroyed 15 shops and four houses, leaving behind widespread devastation. Fire brigades from Hoshiarpur, Dasuya, and Talwara were deployed to control the blaze. Authorities evacuated nearly a one-kilometer stretch of the highway as a precaution, halting traffic through the area.

Deputy Commissioner Ashika Jain confirmed that the fire was brought under significant control by around 1:30 AM. “The situation is stabilizing, and a full assessment of the damage will be made once conditions normalize,” she said.

Civil Surgeon Dr. Pawan Kumar reported that two bodies were brought to the hospital late at night, while 20–22 injured patients remain admitted. An SDRF team also joined the relief and rescue operation. Notably, the accident site lies just 500 meters from a gas plant — and officials stated it was a matter of great relief that the flames did not reach the facility, averting a bigger catastrophe.