MUZAFFARABAD: The Azad Government of Jammu and Kashmir has ordered an immediate Magisterial level inquiry into the gigantic explosion, which rocked New Mirpur Town yesterday [June 12], it was officially stated.

According to official sources, at least five persons died and 41 were injured as a result of the blast. Unofficial reports put the death toll at ten. An official handout said that the explosion, which occurred yesterday afternoon in the official colony in New Mirpur Town, had caused extensive damage to the newly-built houses in the colony.

The inquiry into the explosion will be conducted by the ADM, Mirpur, who will be assisted by a Police officer. The Inquiry Officer will submit his report to the Government within the shortest possible time. The Government has also constituted a Committee to assess the damage caused by the explosion to the public and private property.

... Asked whether he suspected any foul play, Mr Nazir Husain [Deputy Commissioner, Mirpur] replied that it was too early to say anything at this stage. The blast had resulted from the explosion of the explosives kept in a PWD store which was situated close to the WAPDA office.

Published in Dawn, June 13th, 2019