Junagadh: A devastating fire, triggered by a gas pipeline leak, claimed the lives of three people, including a woman and her two-and-a-half-year-old daughter, in Junagadh city on Wednesday.

The victims, Rupaben Solanki (39) and her daughter Bhakti, were inside a snacks shop owned by Rupa’s husband, Shailesh, near Zanzarda Crossroads when the fire broke out. The third victim was Shailesh’s friend, Hareshbhai Rabadiya.

The incident occurred around 10 am while Shailesh was outside the shop and the three victims were inside. At that time, excavation work was taking place just outside the shop, where an earthmover struck an underground gas pipeline, causing a leak. The gas leak quickly ignited, resulting in a sudden fire that rapidly consumed the shop and spread toward the nearby police chowki. Several parked two-wheelers were also set on fire.

Shailesh attempted to save his wife and daughter but had to retreat as the flames intensified. Bystanders pulled him to safety, though he suffered burns. Five burn victims were taken to Junagadh Civil Hospital, but Bhakti and Rabadiya were declared dead before receiving treatment, while Rupa passed away shortly afterward.

Senior officials, including the district collector, prant officer, police, and Junagadh Municipal Corporation’s fire team, responded quickly. Firefighters worked hard to control the fire. A complaint has been filed against the earthmover operator at B Division Police Station, where charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder and causing death by negligence have been levied.

Prant officer Charansinh Gohil confirmed that the fire was caused by damage to the gas pipeline due to unauthorized excavation by the machine operator. “The district collector has ordered an investigation, and a report will be submitted accordingly. We will take strict legal action against those responsible for the negligence,” Gohil stated. DeshGujarat