Mysuru Palace Blast Death Toll Rises to 3: NIA Enters Helium Cylinder Explosion Investigation
Helium cylinder explosion near Mysuru Palace kills 3, including two women who died during treatment; NIA joins probe.
The death toll from a helium cylinder explosion near the Jayamartanda Gate of Mysuru Palace has risen to three, following the deaths of two women undergoing treatment at KR Hospital. The incident occurred on Thursday night, Christmas Day, when a balloon vendor, identified as Salim from Uttar Pradesh, was filling balloons with helium gas. Salim died on the spot, while several passersby were injured in the blast.
The two women who succumbed to their injuries have been identified as Manjula from Chamalapur, Nanjangud, and 29-year-old Lakshmi from Bengaluru. Lakshmi had visited Mysuru with her husband, Rajesh, and suffered severe abdominal trauma in the explosion. Despite intensive medical care, both women could not be saved.
Police confirmed that the blast occurred in front of the palace gate, and the cylinder belonged to the balloon vendor. The incident has raised concerns over safety regulations for small vendors operating in tourist areas, with authorities noting a lack of proper control over such activities.
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Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara said a thorough investigation has been ordered. Officials are examining how the balloon seller obtained the helium cylinder and are coordinating with the Tourism Department to ensure stricter safety measures for visitors and locals.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has joined the probe to collect detailed information about the explosion. Police and investigators continue to examine the exact cause, including the cylinder’s source and handling, as Mysuru authorities work to prevent similar incidents in high-traffic tourist zones.
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