Eluru, India — A tragic incident in the town of Eluru in Andhra Pradesh left one person dead and several others injured on October 31, 2024, when a bag of firecrackers being transported on a scooter exploded. The explosion, initially mistaken for an electric vehicle mishap in viral social media posts, was actually triggered by the firecrackers after the scooter hit a pothole.
The video of the incident, captured by a CCTV camera, shows two individuals on a white Honda Activa scooter navigating through a crowded street before a sudden blast envelops the area in thick white smoke. Passersby can be seen fleeing from the scene in panic.
Authorities confirmed that the deceased, identified as Duvvasi Sudhakar, was carrying the firecrackers in a gunny sack with another person when the fatal accident occurred. The impact of hitting the pothole caused the “onion bombs,” a type of firecracker, to detonate, leading to the catastrophic explosion.
Local police, responding to the incident near Gowramma Temple in Toorpu Veedhi, highlighted the dangerous nature of carrying unstable materials such as firecrackers on vehicles prone to jarring movements. Inspector G Satyanarayana, from the 1 Town Eluru Police, emphasized the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, especially during festival seasons like Deepawali when the use of firecrackers peaks.
In the aftermath, six individuals were reported injured, some seriously, adding to the tragedy of the event. The local community has been left shaken, with calls for stricter regulations on the transport and use of firecrackers in public areas.
Further investigation into the vehicle involved revealed it to be a petrol-powered Honda Activa 6G, dispelling rumors that the explosion was related to an electric scooter malfunction. These claims had circulated widely online, prompting a flurry of misinformation regarding the safety of electric vehicles.
The incident has raised concerns over road safety in Eluru, particularly the condition of its roads and the risks posed by potholes, which can lead to unexpected and dangerous situations, such as this explosion. Community leaders and citizens have urged authorities to take immediate action in repairing and maintaining infrastructure to prevent future accidents.
As the town mourns the loss of Duvvasi Sudhakar and prays for the swift recovery of the injured, the devastating event serves as a grim reminder of the precautions necessary when handling fireworks. The incident reinforces the need for public awareness and adherence to safety protocols to ensure such tragedies are avoided in the future.