Jaipur, April 7 (IANS) A devastating gas cylinder blast in Jodhpur’s Gulab Sagar area claimed the lives of two persons including a 14-month-old child and left 14 others severely burned.

The explosion took place on Monday evening at a residential-cum-commercial building.

The blaze that led to the blast is believed to have started from furniture stored in the house, which quickly intensified the fire.

According to authorities, two children who sustained critical injuries have been referred to Ummed Hospital from the MGH Burn Unit, where most of the injured are currently undergoing treatment.

Fire brigade teams rushed to the spot and managed to control the flames. However, family members fear that one person may still be trapped inside the house. The deceased have been identified as Hashim (14 months) and Sadiya.

Mohammad Imran, a local resident from Nagauri Gate, shared that preparations were underway for a family meal intended for 20–25 people departing for Umrah (a pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina).

Around 4.30 p.m., a gas leak occurred during cooking, sparking a fire that spread rapidly due to the presence of flammable furniture materials in the house.

The residents of the house are reportedly involved in furniture work.

Jodhpur District Collector Gaurav Agarwal stated that 12 people experienced breathing difficulties due to smoke inhalation, and the fire has been successfully brought under control.

He assured that government assistance will be provided to the affected families.

Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has been briefed on the incident and has issued necessary instructions to the police and administration for relief and support measures.

The Chief Minister expressed grief over the loss of lives.

Expressing profound grief over the tragic accident, Sharma offered prayers for the peace of the departed souls. He wished a swift recovery to the injured and instructed officials to ensure they receive proper and timely medical care.