Gas explosion destroys building in Karachi Soldier Bazaar, killing at least 15

KARACHI: At least 15 people, including women and children, were killed and 18 others injured after a gas explosion caused part of a residential building to collapse in Gul Rana Colony, Soldier Bazaar, early on Wednesday, officials said.

The incident occurred around 4:15am during Sehri. Rescue 1122 initially reported 16 deaths, but officials later confirmed 15 fatalities. The injured and deceased were shifted to Civil Hospital Karachi.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Jamshed Asher said the explosion occurred on the building’s first floor. East Deputy Commissioner Nasrullah Abbasi described the structure as a ground-plus-three-storey building constructed on 40-45 yards with small rooms on each floor. He said the blast destroyed the entire building.

Abid Farooq of the bomb disposal squad ruled out sabotage, attributing the incident to a gas leak triggered by a match. He noted that gas fittings in the kitchen were substandard, plastic pipes had been used for supply, and an electric gas pump was installed. Residents said gas supply, which had been off for several days, increased on Wednesday night.

Hassaanul Haseeb Khan, spokesperson for Rescue 1122, said the narrow streets and dense construction meant heavy machinery could not be used, so the rescue operation was carried out manually. Rescue teams could hear the cries of trapped women and children.

Police surgeon Dr Summaiya Syed confirmed that most deaths were caused by head injuries, with some victims suffering crush injuries and multiple wounds. Soldier Bazaar Station House Officer Rizwan Patel said the first information report had not yet been registered.

Rescue 1122 Chief Operating Officer Dr Abid Jalaluddin Shaikh confirmed that the search and rescue operation had concluded. He described the building as illegal, made of individual rooms, and said the collapse also damaged surrounding structures.

CM takes notice and orders relief

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and directed authorities to rescue people trapped under the debris and provide medical assistance. He instructed the Karachi commissioner to investigate the incident and ensure affected families receive all possible support.

Adviser to the Chief Minister for Rehabilitation Giyan Chand Essrani said teams were on site providing temporary accommodation, basic necessities, and mental health support. He said the department was implementing a comprehensive plan for rehabilitation and safe relocation of affected residents.

Condolences from national and provincial leaders

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief over the incident. Zardari urged the Sindh government to inspect other buildings, ensure gas cylinder safety, and enforce building codes, while directing authorities to accelerate rescue efforts.

PM Shehbaz offered prayers for the deceased and instructed authorities to provide full medical assistance to the injured.

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar, Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, and Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab also expressed condolences, highlighting the need for caution with gas use and better enforcement of safety standards.

Building collapses in Karachi

Roof and building collapses are common in Pakistan due to substandard construction, ageing infrastructure, and poor enforcement of building regulations. Karachi, home to over 20 million people, is notorious for illegal extensions, overcrowding, and dilapidated buildings.

In July 2025, a five-storey building in Lyari collapsed, killing 27 people. In August 2025, a gas explosion in Orangi Town injured four workers. In June 2024, an LPG cylinder shop in Hyderabad exploded, killing 27 people. The Sindh government has since taken steps to relocate such facilities from residential areas, but risks persist due to lax enforcement.