Gas Explosion in Little India Sparks Building Collapse and Evacuations

A suspected gas explosion led to the partial collapse of two shophouses in Little India, Singapore, injuring six and prompting hotel evacuations. The explosion, which occurred at Syed Alwi Road, affected the Paakashala restaurant and Nirja Mega Mart. Nearby hotels evacuated guests as a precautionary measure.

In a shocking incident on Tuesday, a suspected gas explosion caused the partial collapse of two shophouses in Singapore's Little India, a popular area for tourists. The blast occurred around 1:30 am, damaging units 84 and 85 on Syed Alwi Road and injuring six individuals.

The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) reported that two people were hospitalized with minor injuries, while four others declined hospitalization. This incident marks the first explosion-related property damage in the bustling precinct.

Significant damage was inflicted at Paakashala Singapore, an Indian vegetarian restaurant, and Nirja Mega Mart, leading to evacuations at nearby hotels such as the Royal India Hotel and Arianna Hotel. Despite the chaos, no visible damage was reported at the evacuated hotels, though at the Philip Hotel, windows were shattered.

(With inputs from agencies.)