KARACHI: At least 13 people were killed and more than 12 others injured after a gas cylinder explosion tore through a residential building in Gul Rana Colony, Soldier Bazaar, on Thursday. The powerful blast caused the roof to collapse, trapping several residents under heavy debris and triggering a major rescue operation.
Rescue officials said the affected structure was a three-storey building with one room on each floor. As a result, a large portion of the building turned into rubble, which slowed down relief work. Authorities also said narrow streets in the area made it difficult to bring heavy machinery to the site. However, rescue teams continued operations without interruption.
According to rescue sources, emergency workers recovered 10 bodies from the debris, including a woman and a 10-year-old girl identified as Nazia. Meanwhile, hospitals received more than 14 injured people for medical treatment. Rescue workers also pulled another young girl alive from the rubble and provided urgent medical care.
Rescue 1122 Director General Brigadier Wajid told reporters that early information suggested the explosion occurred on the first floor. He added that a gas cylinder or a gas suction machine likely caused the blast, but investigators are still working to confirm the exact reason.
Brigadier Wajid warned that more residents could still be trapped beneath the rubble. Therefore, emergency workers are using specialised tools to cut through twisted iron beams and remove debris carefully to avoid harming survivors.
Residents said the explosion echoed across the neighbourhood and caused widespread panic. Police and rescue teams continue searching for anyone still trapped.
