A powerful blast at a gas pipeline in Southern Indian State of Andhra Pradesh killed 15 people and injured many others.

New Delhi, June 27/Nationaturk – At least 15 people were killed and many others injured after a massive blast at a gas pipeline in Southern Indian State of Andhra Pradesh.

“The blast took place at 0530 hours in a pipeline in East Godavari district in Andhra Pradesh operated and owned by state owned Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) in East Godavari district,” officials said.

They said 15 deaths have been reported and many people have suffered critical injuries and are undergoing treatment in hospitals.

Officials said the death toll may rise as many injured have suffered critical injuries.

The huge flames leaping out of the pipeline gutted scores of houses and shops near the blast site. Villagers ran out of their houses in panic as the fire accompanied by loud blasts engulfed a large area.

Fire was brought under control after 2 hours

Officials said the fire caused by the blast in the gas pipeline was brought under control about two hours after the blast.

There is speculation that the pipe was old and rusted, which caused a gas leak.

After the blast, authorities shut down the gasfield, about 50 kms away from the place where the pipeline blew off.

The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh state, N Chandrabau Naidu has ordered an inquiry into the incident and action plan to avoid these in future.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked country’s Oil Minister to ensure immediate relief at the scene.

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