Gas pipeline explosion in Bihar kills one, injures over a dozen

A powerful explosion tore through Muzaffarpur in Bihar's Mithila region on Monday afternoon, triggering a major emergency response across the city. The blast occurred after a piped natural gas pipeline buried beneath street level was ruptured during routine drainage construction operations in the locality.

Immediately following the rupture, flames engulfed a nearby residential structure, forcing emergency services to launch a coordinated rescue and firefighting operation. One young male resident of the affected building was pronounced dead at the scene, while two others sustained critical burn injuries requiring immediate hospitalization. Initial reports indicate that more than 10 individuals sustained injuries ranging from minor to moderate.

Authorities have cordoned off the affected area as investigations into the incident commenced. Officials from the gas utility provider reached the site to assess the extent of pipeline damage and implement safety protocols. Residents in surrounding neighborhoods were temporarily evacuated as a precautionary measure while emergency teams worked to contain the situation and restore normalcy to the affected zone.

The exact cause of the pipeline rupture during construction activities remains under investigation. Officials have indicated that a detailed inquiry will be conducted to determine whether proper safety protocols were observed before commencing the drainage work in the area.