At least 15 killed as building collapses after gas explosion in Karachi's Soldier Bazar

Karachi (Web Desk): In Karachi’s Soldier Bazaar area, a devastating explosion ripped through a three-storey residential building in the early hours of the morning, leaving at least 15 people dead, including two children, and several others injured.

The powerful blast, caused by a gas leak, led to the partial collapse of the structure, trapping residents beneath the rubble.

According to police officials, the incident occurred at around 4:00am. when accumulated gas ignited, triggering the explosion and bringing down a significant portion of the building.

Law enforcement personnel quickly cordoned off the area and tightened security as emergency responders rushed to the scene to begin rescue operations.

Rescue authorities said the building was located in a narrow alley, which complicated relief efforts and delayed the movement of heavy machinery.

The structure consisted of three floors, with a single room on each level. So far, 15 bodies — including those of two children — have been recovered from the debris, and the injured have been shifted to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.

Brigadier Wajid, Director General of Rescue 1122, stated that preliminary findings suggest the explosion originated on the first floor, possibly due to a gas cylinder or a gas suction machine.

He added that the intensity of the blast was so severe that nearby buildings shook, spreading panic and fear throughout the neighborhood.

The Deputy Commissioner East expressed concern that more people might still be trapped under the rubble.

He confirmed that the explosion occurred on the ground floor due to a cylinder blast, which ultimately caused the building to collapse. Although the narrow streets have posed serious challenges to rescue teams, recovery efforts remain ongoing.

The Rescue 1122 also stated that the search operation is still in progress, with personnel thoroughly clearing the wreckage to ensure that no one is left trapped beneath the fallen structure.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has taken immediate notice of the incident and directed the relevant departments to accelerate rescue efforts.

He directed the authorities to make every possible effort to rescue those stuck under the debris and to provide comprehensive assistance to the families affected. Orders have also been issued to fast-track all relief measures.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of lives caused by a building collapse in Karachi’s Soldier Bazaar area.

In his message, President Zardari conveyed deep condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and called on authorities to ensure that all injured receive the highest standard of medical care.

He emphasized the need for urgent continuation of rescue efforts and instructed the Sindh government to carry out safety inspections of buildings, secure gas cylinders, and strictly implement construction and safety regulations.

The president also stressed that a thorough investigation should be launched to understand the cause of the incident and prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, expressed his heartfelt sorrow over the lives lost. In a statement from the PM House Media Wing, he offered sympathy to the affected families and prayed for the departed souls’ peaceful elevation in Jannah. 

The prime minister also wished a swift recovery for those injured and directed all relevant authorities to provide them with comprehensive medical assistance.