15 killed in Chamoli transformer explosion in Uttarakhand; CM Pushkar Singh Dhami orders probe

Fifteen people were killed and several injured due to electrocution 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.

According to Prima Facie there was current on the railing, said Additional Director General of Police, Uttarakhand, V Murugesan.

He said, “Around 15 people including a police sub-inspector & five home guards have died. Investigation is underway. Prima Facie reveals that there was current on the railing and the investigation will reveal the further details.”

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his grief over the incident. He said, “It is a sad incident. District administration, police, and SDRF have reached the spot.”

He also said, the injured are being referred to a higher centre and are being shifted to AIIMS Rishikesh via helicopter. Orders have been given to conduct a Magisterial inquiry.