The serene fishing community near Puthiyangadi harbour in Kannur is reeling from a second tragedy following a horrific gas leak fire. Nigam Behra, a 38-year-old fisherman hailing from Odisha, sadly passed away on Tuesday. His death follows that of Subhash Behra, 53, also from Odisha, who had previously succumbed to injuries from the same incident. Both men had been receiving intensive care at the Government Medical College Hospital in Kannur.
The harrowing accident unfolded early last Friday morning, around 6 a.m., when four fishermen suffered severe burns. Investigations by the police revealed that the workers had inadvertently left the gas cylinder valve and stove open the night before, allowing gas to accumulate dangerously within their rented living quarters. The explosive blaze was triggered when one of them, unaware of the hazardous atmosphere, lit a beedi.
Swift action from local residents and fire and rescue services ensured the injured were rushed to the hospital. While Nigam and Subhash tragically lost their lives, the other two fishermen involved, Shibha Behra and Jitendra Behra, continue to receive treatment at the Government Medical College Hospital.