An LPG tanker lorry exploded near Chala near Kannur on Monday.
According to reports, the tanker lorry on its way to Kannur exploded near the Chala temple. The huge explosion caused an outbreak of fire in the area. Police and Fire and Rescue Service personnel from Kannur and Thalassery areas rushed to the spot to secure the area and check the spread of fire.
Reports say that there were two explosions. Local residents say that they could see fire raging. Even police and Fire and Rescue personnel could not reach near the spot because of extensive fire that covered large area. The reports say that the explosion occurred after the driver of the tanker lorry alighted from the cabin on finding gas leakage.
According to initial reports five houses caught fire following the explosion. No casualty is reported so far. Reports say that residents rushed out of the houses immediately after the explosion. Several shops in the area have also been destroyed in the fire. Efforts are under way to extinguish the fire. By midnight the fire was brought under control, according to reports.
Top officials including police officers have rushed to the spot. Ambulances from Kannur and Thalassery were also asked to rush to the spot.
