Power transformer explodes in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli, 15 killed

Dehradun: Fifteen people were killed and several injured after a power transformer exploded on the banks of the Alaknanda river in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, an official said on Wednesday.

The injured have been admitted to the district hospital.

Following the incident, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said a magisterial inquiry has been initiated to probe the incident. “It is a sad incident. District administration, police, and SDRF have reached the spot. The injured are being referred to higher centre and are being shifted to AIIMS Rishikesh via helicopter. Orders have been given to conduct a Magisterial inquiry,” he said.

According to police officials, a police sub-inspector and five home guards were among the deceased, news agency ANI reported. “Investigation is underway. Prima Facie reveals that there was current on the railing and the investigation will reveal the further detail,” Additional Director General of Police, Uttarakhand, V Murugesan, told news agency ANI.