A devastating gas explosion in Karachi, Pakistan, led to a tragic building collapse on Thursday, 19 February 2024, killing at least 16 people, including women and young children. The incident occurred in the densely populated Soldier Bazaar neighbourhood around 4am local time, coinciding with the time when many Muslim families prepare sehri, the pre-dawn meal consumed before fasting during Ramadan.
Details of the Incident
According to the provincial rescue agency’s spokesman, Hassan Khan, reports indicate that the explosion may have originated from a gas cylinder, but an investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause. The three-storey building collapsed, leaving over a dozen others injured.
Previous Incidents and Safety Concerns
Building collapses are a grim reality in Pakistan, particularly in Karachi, where infrastructure safety is a critical concern. Last year, a similar incident in the Lyari area resulted in 27 fatalities, highlighting the ongoing issues with building regulations and the use of substandard construction materials.
- The government has identified around 600 buildings in Karachi as dangerous.
- Karachi’s population exceeds 20 million, exacerbating issues related to overcrowding and infrastructure strain.
- Authorities are grappling with poor enforcement of safety standards and rampant illegal building practices.
Emergency Response
Emergency workers responded swiftly, rescuing individuals trapped in the rubble. There are concerns that more victims may still be under the debris as rescue operations continue.
The loss of life, particularly among children, has shocked the community, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of building codes and safety regulations. Local officials have started evaluating buildings to prevent future tragedies.