Karnataka sets up 5 teams to probe Shivamogga blast

East Zone IGP S Ravi informed that a total of five teams have been set up to probe the blast at a stone crusher facility in Shivamogga, which claimed at least six lives.

Shivamogga (Karnataka): A total of five teams have been set up to investigate into the blast at a stone quarry in Shivamogga, East Zone IGP S Ravi said on Monday.

The teams will issue a comprehensive report on the illegal explosive inventory, dispatch, and blast case registered, the IGP said.

Earlier on the night of January 21, a truckload of gelatin went off at a stone-crusher facility at Hunasody on the outskirts of Shivamogga.

A total of six people reportedly died in the blast. The deceased were natives of Bhadravati in Karnataka, and Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh.

Read:Illegal mining should be stopped says Karnataka CM

Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa had announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for the relatives of the deceased.

In Shivamogga, the effect was severe as some houses developed cracks, roof tiles and window panes shattered into pieces.

Vehicles were badly mangled and the bodies of the victims were dismembered beyond recognition.

Read:Illegal quarrying or mining will not be allowed in the state: BSY