A massive explosion late at night in Srinagar’s Naugam area has triggered chaos and deep concern across Jammu and Kashmir, with initial reports indicating that nine people have lost their lives and at least 29 others have been injured, many of whom are believed to be police personnel. The blast occurred around 11:22 pm and was powerful enough to set multiple vehicles ablaze, creating panic in the surrounding locality. Senior officials, including DGP Nalin Prabhat and other top brass of Jammu and Kashmir Police, rushed to the spot at Naugam Police Station to assess the situation and review the ongoing investigation. Preliminary indications suggest that the explosion may have occurred while handling ammonium nitrate–based explosives that were brought from Faridabad for forensic sampling, though an official confirmation is still awaited. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of a terror-related angle, as certain unverified social media posts have claimed responsibility, prompting agencies to investigate all possibilities. Forensic teams, district officials, and security units remain stationed at the site, while DNA testing may be required to identify some victims due to the intensity of the blast. An official statement is expected soon as the investigation continues.

