KARACHI: At least one boy was killed and two others sustained critical burn injuries after a gas cylinder explosion triggered a fire in a residential apartment in Karachi’s North Nazimabad area on Sunday, rescue officials said.
The incident occurred at Bismillah Residency near Five Star Chowrangi in Block D, where the explosion, reportedly caused by a leaking gas cylinder, sparked a blaze that quickly engulfed the flat. The blast was so powerful that it was heard nearly two kilometres away, creating panic among residents who rushed out of their homes.
Police and rescue teams reached the scene shortly after receiving information and cordoned off the area while emergency operations were launched. Fire brigade officials deployed two fire tenders and a water bowser to control the flames, while rescuers evacuated other residents from the building to safety.
According to rescue sources, the deceased boy has not yet been identified. The injured, identified as Tasleem and Haneen, suffered approximately 90 percent and 80 percent burns respectively and were shifted in critical condition to the burns ward of Civil Hospital Karachi for treatment.
Police and relevant authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion. Initial reports suggest a gas leakage led to the incident; however, officials said the final cause would be confirmed after a detailed inquiry.