A devastating explosion ripped through a service station in Russia’s Caucasus republic of Dagestan, leaving a trail of destruction and loss of life. At least 10 people were killed, including two children, and 11 others were wounded in the blast, according to the emergency situations ministry.

The initial report from the ministry stated that five people had died and three were injured, but the ministry later updated the toll on social media network Telegram. The statement described the destruction, saying that the building was destroyed, and the technical area and cafeteria were burning over an area of 500 square meters.

Rescue efforts are ongoing, with almost 120 rescuers working at the scene, located south of Dagestan’s capital Makhachkala. The fire has been brought under control, but it has not yet been fully extinguished.

This tragic incident is not an isolated event in Russia, where a similar explosion occurred in August 2023 at a service station in a Makhachkala suburb, killing 37 people and injuring 119. Such accidents are often caused by violations of safety standards and ageing facilities, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and action to prevent such tragedies.

As the investigation into the explosion continues, the people of Dagestan and beyond are left to mourn the loss of life and ponder the causes of this senseless tragedy.