CHAMOLI: A transformer explosion in Uttarakhand has resulted in the loss of 16 lives including that of a police officer. Seven individuals are critically injured. The incident occurred at the Namami Gange project site situated on the banks of the Alakananda River in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand.

The accident took place near the Chamoli Sewage Treatment Plant at approximately 11:35 am today. One police officer and three home guards are among the deceased. Two of the seriously injured victims have been urgently airlifted to AIIMS in Rishikesh. Five others have been transported to a hospital in Gopeshwar.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the departed souls and expressed his prayers for the swift recovery of the injured. The Chief Minister also tweeted that a magistrate-led inquiry into the incident has been initiated.