KARACHI – A powerful gas leakage explosion ripped through a residential building in the Soldier Bazaar area of Karachi, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 13 people and leaving 14 others injured.
The Incident
The blast occurred on the ground floor of a two-story residential structure, reportedly caused by a gas cylinder leak. The intensity of the explosion was so severe that it caused a significant portion of the building to collapse instantly. Local residents reported that the impact was felt across the neighborhood, shaking nearby buildings.
Casualties and Identification
According to Deputy Commissioner (East) Nasrullah Abbasi, the deceased include one young girl, three women, and nine men. Two of the victims have been identified as 10-year-old Nazia and 60-year-old Riaz. All injured persons were immediately rushed to Civil Hospital for emergency medical treatment.
Rescue Operations
Rescue 1122 teams reached the site shortly after the blast. However, the narrow streets of the locality have significantly hindered the movement of heavy machinery, slowing down the relief efforts. Rescue teams are working diligently to remove the debris, as there are reports that one or two more individuals may still be trapped under the rubble.
Investigation
Preliminary investigations suggest that the accumulation of gas from a leaking cylinder triggered the blast. Authorities have cordoned off the area, and a search and rescue operation remains underway to ensure no one is left behind.
