Karachi Gas Cylinder Blast Kills 13 in Soldier Bazaar Tragedy

KARACHI – The Karachi Gas Cylinder Blast killed at least 13 people after a powerful explosion struck a residential building in Soldier Bazaar No 3 late at night. The blast caused part of the three-storey structure to collapse, trapping families under the debris.

Several others were injured, including women and children. Rescue teams rushed to the scene and continued operations overnight to find survivors and recover bodies.

Officials said the explosion happened on the first floor. The impact tore through the building and caused severe structural damage. Residents in the area reported hearing a loud blast followed by screams for help.

Initial investigations suggest the explosion was caused by a gas leak. Authorities believe it may have originated from a gas cylinder or a gas suction machine inside the building.

Rescue workers managed to pull some survivors from the rubble. However, they also recovered several bodies, including a 10-year-old girl and a 60-year-old man. The bodies of a teenage girl and a woman were also found later, while one victim’s identity was still being confirmed.

A 14-year-old girl was rescued alive but remained in critical condition. Many injured children were shifted to nearby hospitals, where doctors continued emergency treatment.

Rescue officials said at least two people were still believed to be trapped under the collapsed portion. Operations continued despite major challenges caused by narrow streets and limited access for heavy machinery.

Police sealed off the area and increased security. Families gathered near the site, waiting anxiously for updates as rescue efforts continued.

The Karachi Gas Cylinder Blast has once again raised serious concerns about gas safety and building conditions in densely populated areas of the city.