The incident happened when Mukesh, a balloon-seller, was returning home on his bike carrying the cylinder. Owing to the impact, four persons, including two women, sustained injuries, and were rushed to a private hospital nearby.

Panic gripped the residents briefly after they confused it to be a bomb blast. The High Grounds police rushed to the spot and conducted a detailed probe. They seized the bike and gas cylinder for further investigation.

The police have identified the injured as Yuvaraj, a medical store employee, and passers-by lakshmi Devi and Ammi, and Mukesh. Window panes of houses and shops were shattered.

The condition of Mukesh is said to be critical.