Delhi CNG blast: Truck had extra cylinders, says IGL; NHRC seeks probe

New Delhi, August 20: A day after a CNG cylinder blast at a filling station near Tikri Kalan metro station killed three persons and injured three others, Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL), Delhi's natural gas distributor, said on Thursday that preliminary findings indicated that the truck involved was authorised to carry six CNG cylinders but appeared to have been carrying additional cylinders.

The blast occurred on Wednesday afternoon while CNG was being refilled in a commercial truck at the Aadhya Energies IGL CNG station. The three deceased — Manish, 25, Brahmjeet, 34, and Sunny, 30 — were employees of the filling station. The injured have been hospitalised and are reported to be stable.

IGL stated that the relevant authorities are investigating whether the additional cylinders were authorised and determining the precise cause of the blast. The company emphasised that it is following all protocols applicable in such incidents and is committed to upholding the highest safety standards and ensuring strict compliance with Standard Operating Procedures.

“IGL is following all protocols applicable in case of such incidents. We are steadfast in our commitment to upholding the highest safety standards and ensuring strict compliance with Standard Operating Procedures,” the company said in a statement, expressing “deep sadness” over the loss of lives.

Meanwhile, a human rights activist has approached the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) seeking an independent examination of the circumstances surrounding the blast. The complaint has sought an Action Taken Report from the authorities and raised questions over safety protocols, CNG cylinder certification and testing, mandatory inspections, fire-safety compliance, emergency preparedness and regulatory oversight.

The complaint has also sought preservation of CCTV footage and other evidence, examination of inspection and licensing records, and verification of cylinder testing and certification records. It further seeks an inquiry into whether there was any prima facie negligence or dereliction of duty by public authorities.

A case of negligence has been registered in connection with the incident. Police have said that forensic teams and experts are examining the site to establish the exact sequence of events. The Delhi government has also ordered an inquiry, and officials have been asked to conduct safety audits at all CNG filling stations in the city.

This incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of CNG refuelling stations, which are located in densely populated areas across the national capital. Industry experts have pointed out that while CNG is a relatively safe fuel, adherence to cylinder maintenance schedules, regular inspections, and proper training of station staff are crucial to preventing such accidents.

The blast site has been sealed, and operations at the station remain suspended. Authorities have said that an exhaustive investigation is under way, and action will be taken against those found responsible. IGL has said it will extend full cooperation to the investigating agencies.