BLITAR – Two children injured in a firecracker balloon explosion in Blitar have regained consciousness while receiving intensive treatment at RSUD Ngudi Waluyo Hospital in Wlingi.
The victims, identified as Arga, 11, and Dewa, 12, suffered burn injuries and wounds caused by exploding firecracker fragments. Medical staff admitted both patients on Wednesday morning after the deadly incident in Gandusari District.
RSUD Ngudi Waluyo spokesperson Ulfa Azizah said doctors continue monitoring the boys closely as they recover from multiple injuries.
“Arga suffered mild to moderate burns covering around two percent of his body. The burns affected his face and hands, while firecracker fragments also caused several abrasions,” Ulfa said on Thursday.
Doctors initially worried about Arga’s condition because he complained of severe pain after the explosion. However, his condition has gradually improved after receiving medical treatment.
Hospital staff confirmed that Arga has regained full consciousness and can communicate normally. His burn wounds have also started drying as doctors prepare additional wound-cleaning treatment.
Despite the progress, Arga still complains of moderate pain in several injured areas.
Meanwhile, Dewa suffered more extensive burns on his face. The explosion also caused abrasions and small lacerations across several parts of his body.
“Dewa’s condition is improving as well. He is conscious and able to communicate with medical staff,” Ulfa explained.
Even so, Dewa still feels pain around his face because many firecracker fragments struck the area during the blast. Doctors scheduled wound-cleaning procedures for him on the same day.
Arga and Dewa survived a balloon explosion involving firecrackers in Tekik Hamlet, Tambakan Village, Gandusari District, on Wednesday morning during Eid al-Adha prayers.
The two boys reportedly played with the balloon device in a rice field to avoid damaging nearby houses. However, the firecrackers attached to the balloon exploded violently before they could launch it safely.
The incident also killed 23-year-old Irfan Hidayat. Witnesses said Irfan initially watched the children before later helping them handle the balloon.
The powerful blast fatally injured him at the scene.
Hospital officials also confirmed that both surviving victims currently use non-BPJS payment methods for medical treatment. Indonesian national health insurance does not cover injuries linked to incidents involving firecrackers and dangerous explosives.
The tragedy has renewed public concern over the use of firecracker-filled balloons during celebrations in several parts of East Java.