8 workers killed as gelatin sticks in truck explode near Shivamogga, more deaths feared | Bengaluru News – Times of India

SHIVAMOGGA: Eight quarry workers were charred to death after gelatin sticks loaded on a truck exploded near Hunsodu, 7km from Shivamogga late Thursday night. Many more are feared to have died; police are yet to enter the site as the earth is scorched around it.
According to reports from the site at the time of going to press, the truck was transporting gelatin sticks or stone-blasting material to a quarry in the region owned by a local businessman. The truck is believed to have been parked at the time and the labourers were resting. There are nearly 100 quarrying sites in the vicinity. The explosion occurred around 10.20pm.
“Pained by loss of lives in Shivamogga. Condolences to bereaved families. Praying that the injured recover soon. State Govt is providing all possible assistance to affected,” tweeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Ran out of house, it felt like a quake, says DC
Such was its impact that windowpanes were shattered and buildings damaged in parts of Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru districts in the Malnad region. Shivamogga deputy commissioner KB Sivakumar said he ran out of his home fearing a quake, as did many other residents.
Police sources said bodies found on the spot were charred beyond recognition and the truck blown to smithereens. Eight bodies have been traced so far.
Shivamogga Rural MLA KB Ashok Naik said about a dozen labourers were reportedly travelling in the truck. Pungent fumes are emanating from the site and officers do not want to run the risk of entering the site in complete darkness, he said. Police teams are awaiting experts to assess the site before moving in.
(With inputs from Udaya Kumar)