WB: Ragpicker injured after blast in central Kolkata; probe underway

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], September 14 (ANI): A ragpicker was injured in a blast at the intersection of Blochmann Street and SN Banerjee Road in central Kolkata on Saturday afternoon.

The injured man was identified as Bapi Das (58).

According to Kolkata police, “At around 1:45 PM, police received reports of a blast at the intersection of Blochmann Street and SN Banerjee Road. A ragpicker was injured in the explosion.”

The officer-in-charge of Taltala police station arrived at the scene and discovered that the injured person had been taken to NRS Hospital with a wrist injury.

Police said that a plastic gunny bag was also found at the scene.

The area was cordoned off with police tape, and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) was called in.

Accordingly, a team of BDDS arrived and checked the bag and the vicinity. After their clearance, traffic was allowed.

After examining the gunny bag and surrounding area and after ensuring it was safe, BDDS cleared the site for traffic.

Police said the injured ragpicker disclosed his name as Bapi Das at the hospital and revealed that he had no place to stay and had been residing on the footpath of SN Banerjee Road.

Police further said that the injured is undergoing treatment, adding that a statement has not yet been recorded as the patient needs some time.

Further details on the matter is awaited.