SRINAGAR: Security experts and political leaders have raised serious questions over the handling and storage of nearly 3,000 kilograms of explosives at Nowgam Police Station in a densely populated area, following a devastating blast during sampling that killed nine people and injured 32 others.

Former J&K police chief S P Vaid said explosives should never be stored in residential areas. “Established guidelines require explosive materials to be kept in isolated and safe locations. I don’t know whether the guidelines were followed in this case,” he said.

The ammonium nitrate kept at the station is highly sensitive and can detonate easily. “It can explode if it comes in contact with water or a spark. Even striking a match while sealing it can trigger an explosion,” Vaid added.

Around 2,900

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