ALMORA: In a major security development, the Almora Police arrested a man linked to the recovery of 161 explosive gelatin rods found close to a government school in Salt area. The incident created widespread concern and led to a multi agency response involving specialised squads and senior police officials.
The explosives were discovered on November 21 near the Government Higher Secondary School in Dabra village. Suspicious packets lying in the bushes outside the school perimeter were first seen by the school principal during a routine inspection. Upon receiving the information, police teams quickly reached the spot, cordoned off the area and summoned bomb disposal experts for detailed verification.
According to officials, the explosive material was secured and later transported for controlled disposal. Bomb squad teams and dog squads searched the entire surrounding region to rule out the presence of additional material. The recovery prompted an intensive investigation due to the proximity of the explosives to an educational institution.
Our correspondent reports that police arrested Prashant Kumar Bisht, a 35 year old resident of Champawat district, in connection with the case. He reportedly told interrogators that the gelatin rods were originally purchased several years ago during a road construction project. He claimed that the material had remained unused and was locked inside a rented room until June. When the room was later opened, some workers without understanding the danger allegedly dumped the material in nearby bushes.
Police said the explanation is being examined and additional inquiries are being conducted to verify the chain of possession. Officers said that the volume recovered is significant and that storing such material in an open area represents serious negligence. The police registered a case under the Explosive Substances Act and relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Our correspondent adds that investigators have begun efforts to trace the original supplier. A police team has been sent to Dehradun to check licence records of authorised explosive dealers and to study any transactions that may match the recovered material. Authorities said the entire supply trail will be examined to determine how the gelatin rods were procured, transported and stored.
Local residents said they were shocked that such dangerous material had been lying near the school. Teachers expressed relief that the explosives were found before any accident could occur. Officials have urged the public to report any suspicious objects or unknown persons seen near sensitive or isolated locations.
Senior Superintendent of Police Devendra Pincha said that the swift action of the school principal helped avert a possible tragedy. He added that all facts will be investigated and that no angle has been ruled out at this stage. He requested people not to speculate and said that the police will share verified information as the inquiry progresses.
Police teams continue to conduct searches in the wider area to ensure that no other explosive material is present. Forensic samples have been taken and the investigation is being monitored closely by senior officers.
The case has highlighted the need for strict monitoring of explosive materials used in civil construction work and the importance of safe storage. Authorities said further arrests are possible if evidence indicates involvement of other individuals.
Dheeraj reports on governance, public services, jobs, and regional developments across Uttarakhand. He specialises in recruitment news, public-sector updates, and civic issues that impact everyday citizens. His reporting brings accuracy, context, and a grassroots perspective to local journalism.
Our correspondent reports that police arrested Prashant Kumar Bisht, a 35 year old resident of Champawat district, in connection with the case. He reportedly told interrogators that the gelatin rods were originally purchased several years ago during a road construction project. He claimed that the material had remained unused and was locked inside a rented room until June. When the room was later opened, some workers without understanding the danger allegedly dumped the material in nearby bushes.
