A gas explosion in Karachi’s Old Soldier Bazar killed 16 people, including nine children, and injured 14 others. The blast caused part of the residential building to collapse, highlighting safety risks with gas cylinders amid city-wide shortages.
14 others injured in a devastating gas explosion
Karachi: At least 16 people, including nine children, were killed and 14 others injured in a devastating gas explosion at a residential building in Karachi on Thursday morning. The tragedy struck the Old Soldier Bazar area around 4:30 a.m., during Sehri, the pre-dawn meal for the first day of Ramzan.
Authorities believe a gas leakage was the likely cause of the explosion. In many low-income residential areas of Karachi, families rely on liquid petroleum gas cylinders due to ongoing shortages in the city, raising concerns about safety measures. The blast caused significant structural damage, with part of the building collapsing under its dilapidated condition.
Double Blow To Pakistan: After Indus, India to stop Ravi waters as well
Rescue teams worked through the rubble to recover victims and search for survivors. Fourteen injured people, including seven children, were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment. Rescue officials continue to comb through debris to ensure no one remains trapped.
The early morning timing of the explosion contributed to the high casualty rate, as many residents were awake and preparing for Ramadan observances. Authorities have emphasized that the building’s poor structural condition worsened the impact of the blast.
The incident has left the community in shock, with children making up more than half of the fatalities. Families in the area are mourning the loss of loved ones, while emergency teams remain on high alert to assist those affected.
This explosion marks the second major incident in Karachi in recent weeks. Last month, a fire at the Gul Shopping Plaza in Saddar claimed at least 79 lives and left many injured, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety standards in the city’s residential and commercial structures.
Bengaluru Horror: Elderly woman slain in sleep in Nelamangala; Rs65 lakh gold looted
Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the gas leak and have urged residents to exercise caution while using gas cylinders at home. The incident underscores the need for stricter safety regulations and infrastructure maintenance in densely populated areas to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The city continues to grapple with the aftermath of the explosion as families mourn and emergency teams work tirelessly to bring relief to those affected.
