In yet another horrific incident, at least 11 people lost their lives, and 15 others were injured after a gas leak explosion in a multi-storey residential building in Soldier Bazaar No 3, Karachi.
A gas explosion occurred late Wednesday night on the first floor of a residential building in the Soldier Bazaar No. 3 area of Karachi. The blast, believed to be caused by a gas leak, possibly from a cylinder or gas suction machine, triggered a partial collapse of the multi-storey structure.
Rescue teams, including emergency services, immediately launched a large-scale search and rescue operation, deploying all available resources despite challenges posed by the area’s narrow streets, which have complicated access and efforts.
Several victims were pulled from the rubble, but the death toll has risen across reports, with at least 6 to 9 people confirmed killed (including children and elderly individuals). Among the deceased are a 10-year-old girl named Nazia and a 60-year-old man named Mohammad Riaz, along with a woman whose body was recovered; identification of additional victims is ongoing in some accounts.
At least 11–12 people were injured, including children, and were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. A 14-year-old girl was among those rescued alive but injured.
Rescue officials indicate that two people are still believed to be trapped under the debris, and operations continue as of Thursday morning.
Police have cordoned off the area, tightened security, and are investigating the incident, with initial findings pointing to a gas-related cause.
Karachi: fire breaks out in Saddar mobile market
A fire has broken out in Karachi, in the Saddar mobile market area. This incident took place shortly after the deadly Gul Plaza fire in Karachi.
People are still trapped inside the Saddar mobile market, according to the reports.
According to the details, the fire erupted on the seventh floor of the market. Four fire brigade trucks are on the scene trying to extinguish the fire, according to the reports.
According to initial reports, a car caught fire, which spread to a second vehicle, resulting in a larger fire.
During the incident, two individuals were rescued from the smoke-filled market, according to the latest reports.
Both people suffered from suffocation and received on-site medical treatment from Rescue 1122 ambulances.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire and ensuring the safety measures in the area.
Rescue 1122 also confirmed that the fire has been brought under control. Adding that the cooling operations are ongoing to help prevent any further flare-ups.
Karachi: Gul Plaza fire
On January 17, a massive fire broke out at Gul Plaza on M.A. Jinnah Road, engulfing the commercial building and trapping dozens inside.
The Sindh government later announced a judicial investigation into the tragic Gul Plaza fire incident, which claimed 80 lives.
The decision was announced by Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon while addressing a press conference alongside Karachi Police Chief Azad Khan on Thursday.
