Bidar Superintendent of Police Pradeep Gunti and other officers inspecting the blast site at Molakera village in Humnabad taluk of Bidar district in Karnataka, on January 31, 2026.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
The government of Karnataka has ordered a detailed investigation into the explosion reported at Molakera village in Humnabad taluk of Bidar district on January 31, Forest and Environment and district In-charge Minister Eshwar Khandre has said.
Six persons, including four children, were injured in the explosion.
Mr. Khandre was speaking to mediapersons on February 1 after visiting the injured who are undergoing treatment at the district hospital following a mysterious explosion. He enquired about their health and instructed doctors to provide the best possible medical care.
The Minster said that of the six victims, one of the injured has been referred to Solapur, while another has been shifted to Hyderabad for advanced treatment. The Minister assured that the government of Karnataka will bear the entire cost of treatment and said the district administration is closely monitoring the situation.
Mr Khandre reiterated that a detailed investigation is underway to ascertain the cause and background of the explosion. “The government is treating this incident with utmost seriousness. I met the Chief Minister on January 31 and briefed him about the situation. A thorough probe will be conducted and strict action will be taken against those responsible. Villagers need not panic,” he said.
Superintendent of Police Pradeep Gunti said their preliminary investigation revealed that the explosion occurred while a barrel containing chemicals used to add shine to painted surfaces was being handled. Police and forensic teams have visited the spot and are examining the scene.
Preliminary information suggests that some residents of the village were engaged in painting and fibre-related work, and had stored paint residue and various chemicals in their homes. The forensic team suspects that the explosion may have been caused by the storage of expired chemicals.
Initial findings indicate that chemicals were responsible for the blast, though the investigation is still underway.
Published – February 02, 2026 10:14 am IST
