A devastating explosion ripped through the Naugam Police Station in Srinagar on Wednesday, killing nine police personnel and injuring several others in one of the deadliest accidental blasts reported in Kashmir in recent years. The powerful explosion completely destroyed large portions of the police station, overturned vehicles, and left a deep crater at the site, prompting an urgent investigation by security agencies.
Blast Linked to Seized Explosives Brought From Faridabad
According to officials, the blast occurred when explosive materials stored inside the station detonated unexpectedly. The chemicals—primarily ammonium nitrate mixed with other compounds—had been transported from Faridabad as evidence in an ongoing terror case.
Security agencies had earlier intercepted a major terror module in Haryana and seized nearly 2,900 kg of explosive precursors. The group, believed to be linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, was allegedly planning multiple coordinated blasts across India, including a potential attack near Delhi’s Red Fort.
The confiscated materials were moved to Srinagar for forensic examination and further legal procedures.
Scenes of Widespread Destruction
Visuals from the site showed the police station reduced to rubble, with walls collapsed and debris scattered across the premises. Several vehicles parked outside were mangled and charred. Witnesses reported hearing a massive blast followed by clouds of dust and smoke engulfing the area.
Rescue teams and emergency responders rushed to the location, working through the debris to recover bodies and assist the injured.
“This was an extremely powerful explosion. The structural damage indicates a massive internal detonation,” an official involved in the rescue operation said.
Preliminary Findings: Accidental Blast, No Terror Involvement Suspected
Although the explosion initially sparked fears of a terror attack, officials have clarified that there is no evidence of external sabotage. Preliminary assessments suggest the blast resulted from chemical instability or improper storage conditions.
Investigators believe that a combination of high temperatures, lack of ventilation, or contamination may have triggered the accidental detonation of ammonium nitrate-based materials.
“We are treating this as an accidental blast. There is no indication at this stage of any deliberate triggering by terror groups,” a senior police officer stated.
Ammonium Nitrate’s History of Catastrophic Accidents
Ammonium nitrate, though widely used in fertilizers and mining operations, becomes highly explosive when exposed to heat, pressure, or certain fuels. The chemical has previously caused several major industrial disasters worldwide.
One of the most significant was the 2020 Beirut explosion, where improperly stored ammonium nitrate devastated large parts of the city. Similar accidents have also occurred in the United States, France, and other countries when the compound was not stored under strict safety guidelines.
India introduced regulatory norms for ammonium nitrate storage in 2012, but enforcement gaps remain, especially in remote areas or temporary storage facilities.
Questions Raised Over Storage Protocols
The Srinagar incident has triggered renewed concerns about how recovered explosives are stored and transported by security agencies. Experts emphasize that seized materials—especially those containing fuel-mixed ammonium nitrate—require highly controlled environments with strict temperature and ventilation monitoring.
Authorities have now ordered a detailed probe into whether all protocols were followed, and whether the storage site met the required safety standards.
Link to Earlier Terror Case
The Faridabad terror module, from which the chemicals were seized, had planned to carry out around 30–32 coordinated blasts across India, according to investigators. The group had accumulated large quantities of ammonium nitrate and fuel oils—materials commonly used to create improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
In the 2019 Pulwama attack, terrorists had similarly used ANFO (Ammonium Nitrate Fuel Oil) mixed with RDX, making the recent seizure particularly alarming for security agencies.
Officials say the Srinagar blast—though accidental—is a stark reminder of the scale of destruction the terror group had been preparing for.
Condolences and Nationwide Mourning
Political leaders, police officials, and citizens across the country expressed deep condolences over the loss of nine police personnel. Tributes poured in on social media, with many highlighting the inherent risks law enforcement officers face in handling dangerous evidence.
“This is an unimaginable tragedy. The bravery of our police personnel will always be remembered,” one senior official stated.
Families of the victims have been assured full support and compensation as investigations continue.
Investigation Underway
The Ministry of Home Affairs has directed a high-level inquiry to determine the exact cause of the blast and to recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
A detailed forensic report is expected in the coming days.
Source
This news report is based on initial information, visuals, and explanations provided in the following coverage: