Sixteen people were killed when a gas leak triggered a powerful explosion in a residential building in Karachi’s Soldier Bazaar area early Thursday. The blast caused part of the three-storey structure to collapse, trapping residents under debris. The tragedy has devastated several families and raised fresh concerns about gas safety in densely populated neighborhoods.
Police said the explosion occurred around 4am after gas accumulated inside the building. Authorities immediately sealed the area and tightened security to facilitate rescue operations. Emergency teams rushed to the site and began searching for survivors under the rubble. Rescue officials reported that the building had three floors, each consisting of a single room. However, narrow streets in the locality slowed the movement of heavy machinery and ambulances.
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Rescue workers recovered 16 bodies from the debris, including four children and six women. More than 12 injured residents were shifted to nearby hospitals for urgent medical treatment. Officials fear additional victims may still be trapped beneath the rubble. Teams are using specialized equipment to cut through twisted metal and remove debris carefully.
DG Rescue 1122 Brigadier Wajid said the explosion occurred on the first floor. He stated that a gas cylinder or a gas suction machine may have caused the blast. Meanwhile, DIG East Dr Farrukh Lanjar confirmed that initial findings point to a gas leak. He added that authorities will conduct a chemical examination to determine the exact cause.
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Investigators will also examine whether the building was legally constructed and met safety regulations. Officials said action will be taken against those responsible once the inquiry concludes. Such incidents have repeatedly highlighted infrastructure and safety challenges in older parts of Karachi. Rescue teams continue clearance operations as families mourn their loved ones.