SOPORE — A tragic explosion in Sopore town in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district has resulted in the death of four people while they were unloading scrap from a truck from Ladakh.
An official told the news agency Kashmir News Observer that the incident occurred at the residence of Abdul Rashid Bhat in Sher Colony, Sopore.
Following the explosion, the injured were rushed to Sub District Hospital, where three were declared dead on arrival, he said, adding that the fourth victim succumbed to injuries while being transported to a hospital in Srinagar.
The deceased have been identified as Nazir Ahmad Nadroo (40), Azim Ashraf Mir (19), son of Mohd Ashraf Mir, Adil Rashid Bhat (21), son of Abdul Rashid Bhat, and Mohammed Azar Fafoo (21), all residents of Sher Colony, Sopore.
After the incident, joint security forces led searches in the area, and forensic teams were seen collecting evidence at the site, according to eyewitnesses.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the explosion may have been caused by an unknown explosive device hidden within the scrap.
A case has been registered at Police Station Amargrah for further investigation.
Speaking to the media persons at the incident site, Superintendent of Police (SP) Sopore, Divya D, said the police are examining all possible angles to ascertain the cause of the explosion. She described the incident as unfortunate.
The explosion has left the entire area in shock, with a sense of grief and disbelief. Residents have been gathering at the homes of the deceased to offer condolences and support to the bereaved families. — (KNO)