Karachi: 13 killed as suspected gas explosion brings down residential building

WEB DESK: A suspected gas explosion has caused the partial collapse of a residential building in the Gul Rana Colony area of Soldier Bazaar, Karachi, leaving at least 13 people dead and as many as 14 others injured.

The blast is believed to have resulted from a gas leak within the property and occurred in the early hours of the morning, causing the roof and sections of the structure to cave in. A spokesperson for District East police said initial assessments suggest a domestic gas cylinder or pipeline fault may have triggered the explosion.

Emergency teams from Rescue 1122 were swiftly deployed to the scene, including an urban search and rescue unit and a disaster response vehicle. Search operations remain under way as authorities work to remove debris and determine whether additional victims are trapped beneath the rubble. Officials have cautioned that the death toll could yet rise.

Cries for help

Witnesses reported hearing a powerful explosion followed by cries for help and the sound of collapsing concrete. Residents in the densely populated neighbourhood attempted to assist those affected, though the instability of the damaged structure hampered immediate relief efforts.

An investigation has been launched to establish the precise cause of the leak. Preliminary indications point to possible negligence in gas safety measures a persistent concern in several of Karachi’s older residential districts, where ageing infrastructure and inadequate maintenance are common.

The injured have been transferred to nearby hospitals, with some said to be in a critical condition. Families of the victims have gathered both at the site and medical facilities, awaiting further news.

Authorities have urged residents to report any suspected gas leaks without delay and have pledged support for families as rescue and recovery efforts continue.

President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow over the collapse and conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased. He directed that the injured be provided with the best possible medical care and ordered prompt and effective rescue operations. The president also instructed the Sindh government to inspect buildings, ensure the safety of gas cylinders, and strictly enforce building codes. He urged the provincial authorities to conduct a thorough inquiry into all aspects of the incident to prevent similar tragedies in the future.