Blast collapses Karachi building
Gas cylinder explosion kills 15 and injures others in Soldier Bazaar collapse
A powerful gas cylinder blast caused a multi-storey residential building to collapse in Soldier Bazaar, a densely populated neighbourhood in eastern Karachi, killing at least 15 people and injuring 13, officials said. The explosion, reported on the first floor, flattened parts of the compound and buried residents beneath concrete and twisted metal. Witnesses described a loud bang followed by dust-filled streets and cries for help as neighbours and rescue teams rushed to the scene.
Emergency personnel, supported by heavy machinery and sniffer dogs, worked through the debris for hours to pull survivors from the wreckage and recover bodies. Ambulances transported the injured to nearby hospitals, where several were reported in critical condition. Authorities warned the death toll could rise as search operations continued and said there might still be people trapped under the rubble. Seven children, including a two-year-old, were among those killed.
Police and forensic teams opened an investigation into the blast’s cause, reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses; officials have not yet confirmed whether the explosion resulted from a gas leak, electrical fault, or another factor. Structural engineers were assessing the damaged site, and neighbouring buildings were evacuated as a precaution. Utility services in the area were temporarily cut to reduce risks of further leaks or fires.
Local leaders expressed condolences and pledged a thorough probe, while humanitarian groups, volunteers and emergency responders provided water, first aid and temporary shelter to displaced residents. Security forces were placed on standby to assist if needed. The collapse has renewed public concern about building safety in Karachi, where rapid urbanization, aging structures and gaps in regulatory oversight have been cited as persistent risks. Authorities urged the public to keep clear of the area to allow uninterrupted rescue operations as crews continued searching under floodlights into the night.
