LPG cylinder blast at Ayyappa temple claims two more lives, death toll rises to eight

The death toll in the devastating LPG cylinder blast at the Ayyappa temple in Hubballi, Karnataka, has risen to eight. Two more victims succumbed to their injuries this week, bringing fresh sorrow to the affected families and community. The tragic explosion occurred on December 22 at the temple in Achchavvana Colony, severely injuring nine people, including eight Ayyappa devotees.

Prakash Barakera (42), a resident of Unakal in Hubballi, passed away on Tuesday morning at the Karnataka Medical College and Research Institute (KMCRI). On Monday night, another victim, 27-year-old Tejaswar, succumbed to severe burns sustained in the blast, officials confirmed.

Among the victims, only 14-year-old Vinayaka Barakera has survived, sustaining 20% burns. He is currently out of danger, offering a glimmer of hope amid the tragedy.

“Of the nine injured in the LPG blast, only one survived and is out of danger,” said Vidyanagara police inspector Jayanth Gauli. “All the others sustained over 70% burns. Despite expert medical care provided by doctors from Bengaluru’s Victoria Hospital, we could not save them.”

The Karnataka state government has announced compensation of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased. Local organisations, including Dharmastala SHG, ISKCON, and the Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation, have also stepped forward to provide additional support to the grieving families.

The Ayyappa temple, built 22 years ago by Swamiji Ghajanan Jitoori, is now slated for demolition following the incident. Deeply affected, Swamiji Jitoori expressed his grief, stating, “I will inform the community and proceed with the demolition of the temple.”

While investigations into the explosion’s cause continue, questions about safety protocols in community spaces have surfaced. Authorities are working to uncover the events that led to the tragedy.

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As the lone survivor recuperates at KMCRI Hospital, the community mourns the lives lost and seeks answers to prevent such incidents in the future.