Blasts and Blaze: Multiple Shops Gutted Near Amity University Noida
A devastating fire and LPG cylinder blasts near Amity University Noida destroyed several shops. One death reported as authorities investigate.
A scene of absolute chaos unfolded in Noida on Saturday afternoon as a massive fire, fueled by violent LPG cylinder explosions, ripped through a commercial stretch near Amity University. The incident, which occurred in the vicinity of Gate Number 2 in Sector-125, turned a bustling area of tea and snack stalls into a zone of destruction, leaving behind a trail of charred remains and thick, suffocating smoke.
Panic at 'Mini Chaupati'
The emergency began around 2:05 PM IST on October 24, 2026. The fire broke out in an area often referred to as the 'Mini Chaupati,' which falls under the jurisdiction of the Sector-126 police station. What started as a fire quickly escalated into a nightmare as several LPG cylinders stored at the food stalls exploded, sending shockwaves through the neighborhood and triggering widespread panic among students, shopkeepers, and passersby.
The intensity of the blasts and the subsequent blaze resulted in the destruction of multiple establishments. While reports on the exact number of affected shops vary, estimates suggest that between four and ten stalls were completely gutted. Among the destroyed businesses was the Moon Light Cafe, which was caught in the heart of the inferno.
The Possible Cause: A Spark from Welding?
As the smoke cleared, those affected began piecing together how the disaster started. Jayram, the owner of the Moon Light Cafe, suggested a potential lead regarding the origin of the fire. According to him, welding work was being carried out at a nearby temple at the time, and it is suspected that sparks from this activity may have ignited the blaze.
Casualties and Emergency Response
The aftermath of the explosions was grim, with thick black smoke engulfing the sky and visibility dropping significantly. While official confirmation on the total number of casualties is still pending from all authorities, NDTV India has indicated that at least one person has lost their life in the tragedy. Local police and fire department teams rushed to the spot immediately after the reports of explosions to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby university structures.
Current Status of Operations
- Firefighting: Fire tenders worked tirelessly to douse the flames and cool down the remaining cylinders to prevent further blasts.
- Police Investigation: Authorities have cordoned off the area to conduct a forensic assessment and determine the exact cause of the fire.
- Damage Assessment: Officials are currently evaluating the full extent of the financial and structural loss suffered by the local vendors.
The incident has raised serious concerns regarding the safety of gas cylinder storage in crowded food hubs, as the authorities continue their investigation into the tragedy.