Southall Nagar Kirtan horror as food stall's gas canister explodes with 'several injured'

A festival was brought to an abrupt end after several people were injured when a fire erupted from a food stall gas canister.

The incident has brought Southall's annual Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan celebration to an abrupt end, leaving several people injured.

Thousands had gathered for the Sikh religious procession, which was due to begin at Park Avenue Gurdwara and culminate at Guru Nanak Road Gurdwara, marking the founding of the Khalsa Panth. The celebration often features the singing of spiritual hymns, enjoying food and the performance of Gatka, a Sikh martial art.

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Emergency services rushed to the scene after reports that a gas canister had caught fire on South Road. At least four volunteers participating in the procession are among those injured.

It is currently unclear how severe the injuries are however a video posted by organisers said they were not serious, reports.

Sharing a video of the terrifying incident on social media, the Sikh Press Association wrote: "The Southall Nagar Kirtan was today cancelled after a gas canister being used at a food stall exploded.

"The West London celebration of Vaisakhi marking the birth of the Khalsa (initiated Sikh order) is one of the largest annual UK street processions."

In another clip, members of the community can be seen desperately battling wild flames before the fire department arrived.

Well wishes poured in on social media. Comments reads: "Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected" and "Was stood like three shops away. Everyone ran for their lives. Praying for the people that were injured and grateful to be okay."

Ealing Council confirmed the incident on social media platform X, stating: "Following a fire at a food stall, people were injured and as a result a decision was made to stop the festival.

"The event, which was due to finish at 4pm, has been stopped. Please do not attend and avoid the area as crowds disperse."

Event organisers later posted on : "Southall Nagarkirtan has been cancelled due to a gas canister catching alight on south road today. A huge thank you th emergency services for handling the incident."