A devastating fire broke out due to a short circuit in a house in Sikaria village, Madhepur block, late Tuesday night. The incident led to a gas cylinder explosion, critically injuring five members of the same family, including three children. Local residents and authorities rushed to the scene upon receiving the information and initiated rescue operations.

The incident occurred at the residence of Ramvilas Sah in Sikaria village around 11:30 PM on Tuesday. A short circuit rapidly escalated into a fierce blaze, engulfing the kitchen gas cylinder, which then exploded with a loud bang. The explosion intensified the fire, trapping the family members who were sleeping inside.

Ramvilas Sah (55), his wife Geeta Devi (50), and their three grandchildren — Rahul (12), Priya (10), and Sonu (8) — suffered severe burn injuries. Neighbors, alerted by the flames and explosion, immediately came to their aid. Villagers managed to control the fire after considerable effort and transported the injured to a local hospital for treatment.

Following primary treatment at the local hospital, Ramvilas Sah and Geeta Devi, due to their critical condition, have been referred to Darbhanga Medical College Hospital (DMCH) for advanced care. The three children are currently receiving treatment at the local hospital, and their condition is reported to be stable. The village is in mourning following the incident. The administration has assured all possible assistance to the affected family, and an investigation into the cause of the fire is underway. This incident underscores the importance of proper electrical wiring maintenance and safe usage of gas cylinders.