LPG Tanker Explosion in Pakistan’s Multan Leaves Five Dead, 31 Injured
Islamabad, January 27 A devastating LPG tanker explosion in Hamidpur Kanora, an industrial estate in Pakistan’s Punjab province, claimed the lives of five people and left 31 others injured early this morning. Among the deceased were a minor girl and two women. The explosion caused a massive fire and scattered debris into nearby residential areas, wreaking havoc on the densely populated locality.
Details of the Incident
The tragic event occurred when a gas leak from a valve in the tanker led to a massive explosion, sparking a fire that engulfed the surrounding area.
- Casualties: Five fatalities have been confirmed, including a child and two women.
- Injuries: 31 individuals sustained injuries, 13 of whom are reported to be in critical condition.
- Damage: Several houses were destroyed, and livestock losses were also reported.
Emergency Response
According to Geo News, more than 10 fire tenders battled for hours to extinguish the blaze.
- Multan Police Officer Sadiq Ali stated that the fire caused significant structural damage to homes in the area.
- Rescue operations were swift, with injured individuals being transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
- The District Emergency Officer confirmed that as a precaution, electricity and gas supply to the affected area were suspended to prevent further incidents.
Witness Accounts and Safety Concerns
Residents reported smelling gas in the area before the explosion. While some evacuated upon noticing the leak, the blast’s force still caused significant devastation.
- Sadiq Ali, the police officer leading the investigation, revealed that the tanker had been parked at the industrial estate with a faulty valve, which caused the leak.
- The explosion highlighted the lack of safety measures in handling hazardous materials, raising concerns about regulatory enforcement in industrial zones.
Impact on the Community
Multan, Pakistan’s seventh-largest city, witnessed widespread destruction in the aftermath of the explosion.
- Families in the vicinity are grappling with the loss of loved ones, property, and livestock.
- Emergency teams are working to restore normalcy, but the emotional and physical toll on residents remains severe.
LPG Tanker Explosion in Pakistan’s Multan Leaves Five Dead, 31 Injured
