Tragedy Strikes Soldier Bazaar
A suspected gas cylinder explosion in a three-story residential building in Karachi’s Soldier Bazaar No. 3 has claimed at least 16 lives, rescue officials confirmed on Thursday. The blast, which occurred on the building’s first floor on Wednesday night, caused a partial structural collapse, trapping numerous residents under rubble.
Victims Include Women and Children
Among the deceased are four children and six women, highlighting the tragic civilian toll. The injured, which also include children, total 14 and have been transferred to local hospitals for treatment. Rescue teams worked through the night, recovering victims from the debris, including a 10-year-old girl identified as Nazia and a 60-year-old man, Mohammad Riaz.
Investigation Points to Gas Leak
Dr. Farrukh Lanjar, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police East, stated that preliminary information strongly suggests a gas leak as the cause of the explosion. “The true nature of the explosion could only be determined after a chemical examination,” Lanjar said, confirming that a formal investigation is underway. Authorities will also determine the legal status of the building and pursue action against responsible parties.
Search Concludes, Cleanup Begins
Rescue officials announced that the active search and rescue operation at the site has been completed. Efforts have now transitioned to the removal of debris. Police have cordoned off the area, maintaining a security perimeter as cleanup work proceeds. The community remains in shock as the city mourns one of its deadliest residential incidents in recent memory.
