Six die after inhaling poisonous gas in Anand

According to details in the case, three persons first entered the well owned by Arjun Parmar with the danki’ (pump) and motor around 10 am on Wednesday. After starting the motor, they began work when others nearby heard their cries for help. Six others entered the well in a bid to save the three already inside the well. But they too started suffocating due to the poisonous gas.

Finally, two more persons entered the well. However, they all got trapped. According to eyewitnesses, one of the 11 who entered the well managed to come out by climbing onto the rope that had been used to lower the motor inside and raised an alarm, following which villagers rushed to the spot.

Police and Fire Brigade were summoned. While six persons died before they could be provided medical help, four have been admitted to a private clinic in Anand city. They are in an unconscious state with slim chances of survival, police said.

The deceased have been identified as owner of the well Arjun Khushal Parmar, Shambhu Bhailal Patel of Kanthari village, Himmat Mela Parmar, Vinu Chhagan Parmar, Mafat Manu Parmar and Kanji Chhaba Parmar, all residents of Bitasi village. Police are yet to confirm identity of the two others.

The four persons who are being treated at the clinic of Dr Ajay Kothiala in Anand have been identified as Mani Khushal Parmar, Raman Shana Parmar, Kanu Shana Parmar and Magan Shana Parmar.

While the pump has been sent for examination, initial reports said it burst while water was being pumped out. Though there was no fire, a lot of smoke was generated due to the pump failure.