Multiple Fires Sweep Odisha During Diwali Festivities, Over 50 Injured

Across Odisha, a spate of fire accidents has been reported following the Diwali festivities, with more than 50 people injured in Bhubaneswar alone on Sunday night. The most severe case involved a three‑storey residence in the Dargah Market area where a short circuit in decorative lights ignited a blaze that killed seven‑year‑old Biraj Bajuria and critically injured his grandfather. Simultaneously, in Rourkela's Raourkela block, a fireworks explosion caused the death of 14‑year‑old student Chinmay Sahu. Local fire departments responded rapidly, deploying teams from Katak, Choulia Ganj and Bidanasi to control the flames and rescue victims. Officials are urging citizens to follow strict safety protocols for lighting and fireworks as investigations continue.