Two youths die after inhaling toxic gas in Wan Bhachran sewer

MIANWALI: Two young men died and another was injured after they were exposed to toxic gas while trying to open a blocked sewer manhole in Wan Bhachran, according to police, rescue officials and local authorities.

The incident took place near Government Higher Secondary School in Mohalla Balochan, where a sewer line laid under a Public Health Engineering Department scheme had reportedly been clogged by waste and gas. Authorities said local contractor Malik Allah Bakhsh Awan went to the site along with his 16-year-old son Muhammad Adeel and a relative, Bilal Ahmad, to inspect and reopen the blocked line.

According to reports cited by police and rescue officials, the contractor stayed in his vehicle because he was unwell, while the two youths checked the manhole. Officials said Adeel opened the sealed cover and went down into the manhole, where he was immediately affected by the accumulated toxic gas and lost consciousness. Bilal Ahmad then entered the manhole in an effort to save him, but he too was overcome by the fumes and collapsed.

A third youth, Rana Faizan, was later lowered into the manhole with ropes to help in the rescue attempt. He also lost consciousness after being exposed to the poisonous gas, but people present there managed to pull him back out.

Rescue 1122 teams and local residents reached the site and brought all three out of the sewer. They were taken to Wan Bhachran Hospital, where Muhammad Adeel was declared dead. Bilal Ahmad was later referred to Mianwali Hospital in critical condition, but he also died from his injuries. Rana Faizan is still under treatment.

Deputy Commissioner Mianwali Asad Abbas Magsi visited both the scene of the incident and the hospitals. He directed the relevant authorities to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured survivor.

The deaths have left the town in mourning and renewed concern over the condition of the area’s sewerage system.