15 hurt as gas balloons explode at Sec-34 function

Ten students and five teachers were injured when around 150 balloons filled with acetylene exploded in a fireball during the annual function of Allen Career Institute in Sector 34 on Sunday.

The Kota-based institute, which has its branches in various cities, trains students for engineering and medical entrance examinations.

The injured were rushed to Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32, with minor burns.

The blast happened around 5:30pm when the tricolour balloons were being set free from the stage. The balloons exploded after coming in contact with an electric bulb installed there. Sources said the balloons were filled with acetylene, which is very reactive.

Those standing on the stage ran for cover, but 15 persons suffered minor burns.

“None of the injured has filed any complaint,” said Sector-34 station house officer (SHO) Ajay Kumar. “We are still deciding if any action needs to be initiated.”

The institute officials did not respond to repeated calls.