At least 16 people were killed and 13 others injured after a gas compressor explosion triggered a partial building collapse in Soldier Bazaar.
The blast occurred early morning during Sehri on the first day of Ramadan, when residents were preparing meals before fasting began across Karachi.
Witnesses reported that the explosion was extremely powerful, shaking nearby buildings and causing panic among residents in the densely populated residential neighborhood.
Visit Times of Karachi website for the latest news-related content
Rescue teams from Rescue 1122 reached the site immediately after receiving emergency calls and began searching for people trapped beneath the collapsed structure.
However, rescue operations faced significant challenges due to narrow streets and limited access, slowing heavy machinery deployment and complicating efforts to remove debris safely.
Officials said there are fears that one or two more individuals may still be trapped under the rubble, and search operations remain ongoing.
Karachi Gul Plaza Incident: Judicial commission meets to discuss TORs’
All injured victims were transported to Civil Hospital Karachi, where emergency teams provided immediate medical treatment to those affected by the deadly incident.
A Rescue 1122 spokesperson confirmed the explosion was caused by a gas compressor pump and clarified it was not due to a gas leakage or cylinder blast.
Initial investigations revealed the explosion originated on the ground floor of the two-storey residential building, causing a major structural collapse and heavy damage.
Deputy Commissioner East Nasrullah Abbasi stated that the victims included a young girl and three women, highlighting the tragic human toll of the disaster.
Follow the Times of Karachi channel on WhatsApp
Authorities identified two of the deceased as 10-year-old Nazia and 60-year-old Riaz, while identification of other victims continues through official procedures.
Residents in surrounding areas also complained of persistent gas shortages during Sehri, which has forced many households to rely on compressor pumps.
Emergency officials warned that the death toll could rise if more victims are found beneath the rubble, as rescue operations continue at the scene.
This is a developing story and will be updated as soon as official information becomes available.
