ROPAR: A tragic incident struck a religious congregation at Gurdwara Head Darbar Asron on the banks of the Satluj River here on Tuesday, when an air conditioner compressor exploded, killing one woman and critically injuring at least 13 others.
The blast occurred during a gathering organized to pay tributes to the recently deceased head of the Gurdwara. The event was attended by several prominent figures, including Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, former minister Daljit Singh Cheema, and Nihang chief Baba Balbir Singh.
According to eyewitnesses, the blast triggered panic and chaos, resulting in a stampede-like situation as people ran for safety. Most of the injured were women seated near the AC unit, and some sustained injuries in the ensuing commotion.
The deceased has been identified as Kashmir Kaur, a resident of Hargobind Nagar in Rupnagar. One of the critically injured victims has been referred to PGIMER Chandigarh, while others are receiving treatment at Rupnagar Civil Hospital and Parmar Hospital.
Emergency response was hampered by the large crowd, which made it difficult for ambulances and rescue personnel to access the site promptly.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the compressor blast, and further details are awaited.