Butane Gas Leak Triggers Blast at Private Hotel in Shimla, One Injured

Munish Sood
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Panic gripped the area near the old bus stand in Shimla on Wednesday evening after a blast caused by a leaking butane gas cylinder rocked a private B&B hotel located close to a Gurudwara Sahib. The explosion shattered window panes, damaged a hotel room, and left one person with minor injuries.

According to preliminary information, the incident occurred inside a room that had been booked by tourists. A butane gas cylinder being used in the room reportedly developed a leak, allowing gas to accumulate in the enclosed space. The trapped gas later ignited, triggering a loud explosion that sent shockwaves through the hotel.

The force of the blast broke window glass and damaged the ceiling of the room. Flying shards of glass caused minor injuries to a young man, who was immediately provided medical assistance. His condition was stated to be stable, and no serious injuries were reported.

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Upon receiving information, a team from Sadar Police Station rushed to the spot and cordoned off the affected area. The damaged room and surrounding premises were thoroughly inspected to assess the extent of damage and ensure there was no further risk.

Police officials said initial investigations confirmed that the blast was accidental in nature. “There is no indication of any external or criminal involvement. The explosion occurred due to gas leakage from a butane cylinder, which filled the room before catching fire,” a police officer said.

The loud blast caused panic among other guests staying at the hotel. As a precautionary measure, hotel authorities, in coordination with the police, immediately evacuated all guests to ensure their safety. No additional injuries were reported during the evacuation.

Police have directed the hotel management to strictly adhere to safety norms related to the use and storage of gas cylinders. Officials also initiated a detailed review of the hotel’s safety arrangements to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Authorities emphasized that hotels and guesthouses must follow prescribed safety guidelines, especially in the use of gas cylinders within enclosed spaces. Further जांच into safety compliance at the hotel is ongoing.