Tragic Explosion in Srinagar: 9 Dead, 29 Injured in Police Station

Post by : Raina Nasser

A forensic examination turned catastrophic in Srinagar on Friday night when a stockpile of seized explosives exploded at the Nowgam police station. The tragic blast resulted in nine fatalities and left 29 others injured, triggering panic as residents fled their homes.

The explosion happened as police and forensic experts examined recently confiscated explosive materials connected to various investigations. Among the deceased were police officers and forensic specialists, with two officials from the Srinagar administration also confirmed dead. The critically injured raise concerns that the death toll could increase.

The force of the explosion severely damaged the building, scattering debris over considerable distances. Some victims were burned beyond recognition, with body parts discovered up to 200 meters away. Eyewitnesses reported a loud bang followed by tremors that shattered windows and rattled walls.

Authorities have assured that this explosion was not a terrorist attack, clarifying that it occurred during a routine forensic inspection of the explosives. A senior journalist echoed that this unfortunate incident was an internal investigation mishap, unrelated to terrorism.

This calamity comes amidst heightened security in India following a deadly car explosion in New Delhi earlier this week that killed at least 12 near the Red Fort, classified as a terror act. In response, Kashmir law enforcement has apprehended over 650 individuals suspected of terror ties.

The Nowgam police station recently featured in numerous investigations, including one concerning intimidating posters from the Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM). This inquiry uncovered what was described as a “white-collar terror network” involving radicalized students and professionals linked to external handlers. Nearly 3,000 kg of explosives recovered raised concerns about imminent major attacks.

This blast underscores the precarious security situation in Kashmir, a region with a long-standing dispute between India and Pakistan. Despite various crackdowns, the valley continues to face incidents of explosives and militant activity.

The police station is now sealed off as officials initiate a thorough investigation to establish the cause of the explosion and assess adherence to safety protocols during handling of the seized materials. Further details will emerge as the investigation unfolds, as authorities strive to prevent such tragedies from recurring.