Three killed in cylinder explosion

PALANI: Three youth were killed in an LPG cylinder explosion triggered by a fire that ravaged 28 houses at Satya Nagar in Palani on Friday. According to sources, the fire broke out in the row of houses adjoining the rail road in Satya Nagar area on the New Tharapuram Road. Residents tried to douse the flames even as the fire service station was informed. However, an LPG cylinder in a locked house exploded with a loud noise. In the impact, J Kandasamy and Raja who were trying to douse the flames, were killed on the spot.Gunasekaran (32) and R Nadimuthu (28), who were severely injured in the explosion, were admitted to the Madurai GH. Later, Gunasekaran succumbed to injuries.  Eight others were injured and admitted to the Palani GH. The families who had lost their homes were given Rs 5,000 each, groceries and clothes.