Panic in Delhi Market as Gas Cylinder Erupts in 12-Foot Flame

New Delhi, December 11, 2025: The fire originated at a samosa vendor’s cart in Shahdara’s Kasaiwada Chappal Market. Preliminary reports suggest that a leak in the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinder was the likely cause, leading to an explosion once the escaping gas was ignited. The sudden burst of flames, reaching the height of approximately 12 feet, created a terrifying spectacle in the densely packed commercial area.

Quick Action Averts Major Tragedy

While the initial scene was marked by fear and confusion, the swift and courageous response of local shopkeepers and residents played a crucial role in preventing a much larger catastrophe. Eyewitnesses reported seeing several alert individuals rushing to the scene to remove extra gas cylinders stored nearby, isolating the source of the danger. They then used a combination of soil, water, and available fire sprays to fight the intense blaze. Their quick thinking and teamwork were instrumental in bringing the fire under control before it could spread to adjacent shops, which were tightly packed with various goods, including highly flammable materials.

Casualties and Damage Assessment

Unfortunately, the incident was not without casualties. Both the samosa vendor and a young man who was reportedly delivering a new gas cylinder sustained injuries. They were rushed to a nearby hospital, and their current condition is being monitored. Additionally, a scooter involved in the incident was completely destroyed by the fire. The quick action of the shopkeepers, however, is credited with saving both lives and property that would have been lost had the fire engulfed the surrounding commercial establishments.

A Recurring Safety Concern

This incident highlights the persistent issue of gas cylinder safety in crowded urban and semi-urban environments across India. While LPG is a common and essential fuel source, especially for street food vendors and small businesses, the incident underscores the critical need for strict adherence to safety protocols.

Experts and local authorities have repeatedly warned about the dangers of using faulty or improperly maintained equipment, storing cylinders in confined or overheated spaces, and neglecting regular safety checks. The use of sub-standard regulators or rubber tubes can often lead to leaks, which—as demonstrated in this case—can turn a regular workday into a scene of sudden disaster.

Calls for Stricter Enforcement

Following the incident, local officials have faced renewed calls to conduct mandatory and frequent safety audits in markets and commercial hubs. Many businesses, particularly small-scale vendors, operate without the necessary safety clearances, often storing multiple cylinders in hazardous conditions. A proper investigation into this recent eruption is expected, with a focus on determining any negligence in the handling or maintenance of the cylinder.

For the community in Shahdara, the event serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks lurking in their everyday environment. While they celebrate the bravery of those who stepped in, the focus is now on recovery and ensuring that adequate fire safety measures are strictly enforced to prevent such terrifying episodes in the future.