An explosion in a gas tanker ignited a massive fire in Faisal Town, Multan, killing six people and injuring 31 others. The powerful blast caused several houses to collapse and destroyed numerous homes.
Firefighters, supported by 18 fire tenders, fought the flames for five hours before bringing the fire under control. Rescue teams evacuated over 100 trapped residents and transferred the injured to Nishtar Hospital, where an emergency has been declared. Hospital officials reported that five to six of the injured are in critical condition.
Authorities suspended electricity and gas supply in the area following the explosion. Commissioner Multan, Amir Karim, confirmed the suspension and commended rescue and fire brigade teams for containing the blaze under difficult conditions.
District Rescue Officer Dr. Hussain Mian announced that an investigation into the cause of the fire is underway. Rescue teams continue their search operation amid concerns of additional casualties.
Flames and thick smoke rising from the tanker were visible from afar, with nearby houses also consumed by the fire.
Condolences
President Asif Ali Zardari prayed for the deceased and conveyed his grief over the deaths in a statement, according to Radio Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also his condolences to the relatives of the incident's victims and wished for their speedy recovery.
Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan and Punjab Cheif Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also expressed condolences on the incident that claimed six lives.
FIR registered
Multan, police have registered a case at Muzaffarabad Police Station against 8 named suspects, 7 unidentified individuals, and the tanker driver.
According to preliminary investigations, 15 to 16 people were illegally refilling LPG gas from the tanker when the fire suddenly erupted, causing the suspects to flee the scene.
The fire spread rapidly, leading to a massive explosion that claimed the lives of 6 individuals on the spot, while 39 others were injured. The intensity of the blast caused widespread destruction in the area.
Police have arrested two of the named suspects and are continuing their investigation to apprehend the remaining individuals involved in the illegal refilling operation.
Officials assured that they are conducting a detailed investigation and have pledged full support to affected families.
