HIMACHAL PRADESH/INDIA: Nine Nepali citizens were killed in a gas cylinder explosion in Himachal Pradesh, India, according to confirmations from family members. All the victims were from two families residing in Siddha Kumakha Rural Municipality–2 of Salyan district.
The explosion occurred at around 2 a.m. on Tuesday while the victims were sleeping in their rented accommodation. A gas cylinder stored inside the room is believed to have exploded, sparking a fire that also damaged nearby houses. All nine are reported to have died instantly.
Ward member Laxmi BK of Siddha Kumakha–2 identified the deceased as 33-year-old Dhan Bahadur BK, his wife Kabita BK, 32, their daughters Radha BK, 16, and Renuka BK, 10, and their 22-month-old son Rajan BK. The other victims were 46-year-old Kashiram BK, his wife Tika BK, 32, their daughter Anu BK, 11, and their son Kiran BK, 7.
The families had been living in India for nearly two years and were employed as daily wage labourers. Local sources said the blast originated from the gas cylinder kept inside their living space.
The tragedy has cast a pall of grief over Siddha Kumakha–2. Ward chair Mekraj Budhathoki said a condolence programme will be organised on Tuesday, and local offices will observe a day of mourning.
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