The deceased has been identified as Sunil Kumar Lokhande, also known as Guddu, son of Baliram Lokhande and a resident of Sarni. The incident occurred when Sunil was travelling on a tricycle provided by the local municipality. According to eyewitnesses, the battery suddenly exploded, causing the vehicle to burst into flames and engulf Sunil within seconds.
Local residents rushed to the spot after hearing the explosion. A nearby shopkeeper, Billu Jagdev, attempted to douse the fire by pouring water, but the flames had already intensified. Sunil sustained severe burn injuries and died on the spot. The tricycle was completely destroyed in the fire.
Police were informed immediately and reached the scene to initiate preliminary inquiries. The body was taken into custody and sent for post-mortem examination to Ghoradongri hospital. Officials said further action would be taken after receiving the post-mortem report and technical details related to the battery explosion.
Family members said Sunil was not differently-abled since birth. His younger brother, Rajesh Lokhande, told police that Sunil developed a severe physical disability during his Bachelor of Engineering studies after a medical condition caused the fluid in his joints to dry up, gradually limiting his ability to sit, stand and walk. Around 15 years ago, he became permanently disabled.
Despite his condition, Sunil remained financially independent. He earned his livelihood by teaching tuition to local children and was known in the area for his commitment to education. He was unmarried and lived with his family in Sarni.
According to the family, the tricycle involved in the incident had been provided by the municipality around two-and-a-half years ago under the Swarnidhi scheme. They said the vehicle had never shown any signs of malfunction earlier, raising serious questions about battery quality, maintenance checks and safety standards.
Residents and social activists have demanded a high-level investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion and fix accountability if negligence is found. They have also urged authorities to conduct safety audits of battery-operated tricycles distributed to differently-abled persons to prevent similar incidents.
Police officials said statements of eyewitnesses are being recorded and technical experts may be consulted to examine whether a manufacturing defect, improper maintenance or external factors led to the blast. The incident has cast a spotlight on the safety of assistive devices relied upon by persons with disabilities.
