fire-extinguisher-blast-at-patna-museum-sparks-panic

A sudden and loud explosion inside the Patna Museum on Thursday caused panic among visitors and staff after a fire extinguisher unexpectedly burst. The incident took place in the Kotwali police station area, sending shockwaves across the museum premises as thick smoke spread rapidly.

Upon receiving the alert, officials from the police department, fire services, and multiple fire brigade units rushed to the scene to assess the situation and ensure public safety. 

Fortunately, no casualties were reported, but the explosion caused damage to a section of the museum's wall and shattered glass panels.

According to preliminary investigations, the explosion was the result of negligence, as the fire extinguisher had been left unattended for a prolonged period without proper maintenance. 

District Fire Officer Manoj Nat revealed that the extinguisher had been exposed to direct sunlight for an extended duration without being defused, which ultimately led to the blast. 

Officials confirmed that they had not been notified about the condition of the extinguisher, highlighting lapses in safety protocols.

As a precautionary measure, authorities have now defused and secured 12 to 15 additional fire extinguishers at the museum. The sub-divisional fire officer has been directed to take necessary actions to prevent similar incidents in the future.

 

Eyewitnesses described the explosion as sudden and terrifying. Vinod, a rickshaw driver resting nearby, initially mistook the blast for a bomb explosion. His account was echoed by several local residents and museum staff, who expressed their shock and concern over the unexpected incident.

Fire brigade personnel swiftly intervened, securing the area and ensuring that the situation did not escalate further. Officials confirmed that the fire extinguisher contained carbon dioxide (CO2) gas, which, had anyone been in close proximity at the time of the blast, could have led to severe injuries or even fatalities.

A security guard at the museum disclosed that the fire extinguisher in question was an old unit that had been repainted and set aside for reuse. This revelation has raised serious concerns about the maintenance and handling of safety equipment within the museum.

Following the incident, fire department officials have taken charge of inspecting all fire safety equipment at the museum. Authorities have emphasized the need for strict maintenance protocols to prevent similar hazardous occurrences in the future.