Several injured in firecracker explosion during Puri's Jagannath festivities

All the injured have been admitted to the district headquarters hospital, they said, adding that the condition of some of the patients is critical

During Lord Jagannath's Chandan Yatra in Puri on Wednesday, firecrackers exploded, injuring several devotees with burns, according to authorities. They added that all of the injured had been brought to the district headquarters hospital and that some of the victims' conditions were critical.

Naveen Patnaik, the chief minister of Odisha, offered his condolences for the incident and said he has instructed the district administration and chief administrative secretary to make sure the injured are treated properly. He further stated that the Chief Minister's Relief Fund will also cover the costs for individuals who have been wounded by the state government.

"Sorry to hear about the accident near Puri Narendra pool. The chief administrative secretary and the district administration have been directed to ensure proper treatment of the injured and monitor the system. All the medical expenses of the injured will be borne from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. Wishing everyone good health," Patnaik said in a post on 'X'.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also expressed grief at the incident. "I am saddened to hear the news of many injured in the unfortunate accident that took place at Narendra Pushkarini Devighat during the Puri Chandan Yatra. With the blessings of the Lord, it is my wish that those who are under treatment get well soon and return home," Prasad posted on 'X'.

(With Inputs from ANI)

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