Large cache of gelatin sticks found near Uttarakhand school; Police launch high-alert probe

A suspicious explosive haul near a school in Almora has prompted a major alert as police investigate links to wider terror activity

PGurus Newsdesk

November 23, 2025

Major explosive haul in Almora sparks security concerns

20 kg gelatin sticks seized from Uttarakhand village days after Haryana explosive haul

A major security scare unfolded in Uttarakhand’s Almora district after police recovered 161 gelatin sticks — weighing over 20 kg — from bushes near a government school in Dabara village, located in the Sult area.

The explosive material was found just days after nearly 3,000 kg of explosives were seized in Haryana in connection with the Delhi blast, triggering heightened security checks across the country.

According to officials, the discovery was made when Government High Secondary School principal Subhash Singh noticed suspicious packets near the school premises and alerted authorities. Two police teams rushed to the spot and cordoned off the area.

Specialised units, including bomb disposal squads and dog squads from Udham Singh Nagar and Nainital, were deployed for a thorough search. Canine teams detected multiple packets of gelatin sticks — some hidden in bushes and more found approximately 20 feet away.

The bomb disposal squad safely collected, sealed and relocated the explosives.

“A total of 161 gelatin sticks were recovered near the school. Search operations were conducted and the bomb disposal squad completed a detailed inquiry,” said Almora Senior Superintendent of Police Devendra Pincha.

Gelatin sticks are commercial explosives used primarily for mining and construction blasting. Police are investigating how such material reached the village and whether there are links to larger networks.

A case has been registered against unidentified persons under Section 4(a) of the Explosive Substances Act, 1908 and Section 288 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS).

Four dedicated investigation teams have been formed, officials confirmed.

Nationwide intelligence agencies remain on high alert amid concerns about terror modules allegedly planning serial blasts in multiple Indian cities. Searches and seizures are ongoing in several states.

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