Casualties Feared: Ammonium Nitrate Explodes During Inspection at Nowgam Police Station
Srinagar, Nov 14, KNT: A massive explosion rocked Nowgam Police Station late Friday night during an official inspection of a large quantity of confiscated ammonium nitrate, resulting in casualties among personnel present at the scene. The blast occurred at around 11:20 pm while a team from the Forensic Science Laboratory was examining the seized explosive material in the presence of police officials and a Tehsildar.
According to sources, the explosive had been recovered earlier during an operation and was stored at the station for examination and documentation. The FSL team had arrived at the police station late in the evening to conduct a technical assessment as part of standard procedure. Initial findings suggest that the material detonated while being inspected, leading to the deadly explosion.
Top police sources confirmed that this was not a militant attack but an accidental blast triggered during the handling of the ammonium nitrate. They described the incident as highly unfortunate and said a detailed inquiry has been initiated to determine the precise cause of ignition and whether safety protocols were followed during the examination.
Authorities are yet to confirm the exact number of injured or casualties. However, sources stated that members of the FSL team and police personnel present in the inspection room sustained severe injuries. The condition of some is reported to be critical.
The area was immediately cordoned off, and additional forces along with emergency responders rushed to the scene. Senior officers reached Nowgam Police Station shortly after the incident to oversee rescue operations and assess the situation. [KNT]
