Minor explosions occurred at a closed clubhouse in north Kolkata on Saturday morning, causing panic in the area. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as confirmed by police officials. The incident took place at 1/2 C Gangulipara Lane in Paikpara, north Kolkata, around 7 a.m., where a series of explosions rattled the closed clubhouse. The force of the explosions was strong enough to blow off the tin roof of the building, which landed on a neighboring multi-storey structure.
Locals suspect that the explosions were triggered by a crude bomb left in the abandoned clubhouse. Some residents also suggest that a dispute among promoters might have been the cause of the incident. An investigation is currently underway to ascertain the actual reason behind the explosions, especially in light of the upcoming state Assembly elections. Eyewitnesses reported hearing at least five loud explosions and observed significant damage to the clubhouse, including the blown-off tin roof and door, as well as a fire inside the premises.
The explosion startled residents from their sleep, prompting them to alert the Chitpur police station. Both the bomb squad and dog squads were called to the scene for a thorough investigation. The closed clubhouse, situated in an area earmarked for a housing complex, had been shut for the past 6-7 months. However, locals mentioned that outsiders frequented the place occasionally, raising suspicions of potential foul play due to disputes over the property’s development.
In response to the incident, locals demanded increased police presence in the vicinity and the installation of CCTV cameras around the clubhouse for enhanced security. The police are actively looking into the matter to determine the exact circumstances that led to the explosions.
