18 Sep 2024 | 08:16 AM UTC
India: Authorities responding to explosion, and subsequent fire, near the labor office in Arya Nagar area of Guwahati, Assam State, early Sept. 18
Officials responding to explosion and fire near the labor office in Arya Nagar area of Guwahati, Assam State, India, early Sept. 18.
Officials are responding to an explosion and fire near the labor office in the Arya Nagar area of Guwahati, Assam State, on early Sept. 18. Initial reports indicate the explosion was caused by 7-8 gas cylinders going off at 11:00 in a nearby building, causing a fire to spread across the building and to a nearby mosque. Firefighters are at the scene attempting to control the flames. Further information will be provided in the coming hours.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the affected area. Authorities may restrict access to nearby roads to facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles. Officials may also mandate building evacuations in the vicinity as a precaution until clearance operations and investigations end.
Avoid the impacted area until authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time to nearby destinations. Consider remaining indoors to avoid smoke exposure, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water. Heed all official advisories, including evacuation orders.
