Tragic Fire Claims Six Lives in Multan Residential Area

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Tragic Fire Claims Six Lives in Multan Residential Area

Synopsis

A devastating fire in Multan, Pakistan, resulted in six fatalities and over 31 injuries due to a gas explosion at an illegal LPG warehouse. The incident, which occurred early Monday, has left many in critical condition and caused extensive property damage.

Key Takeaways

  • Six fatalities confirmed from the explosion.
  • Over 31 individuals injured, with many in critical condition.
  • The explosion linked to illegal LPG operations.
  • Significant property damage in the densely populated area.
  • Concerns raised over gas safety regulations in Pakistan.

Islamabad, Jan 27 (NationPress) Six individuals lost their lives and more than 31 others sustained injuries when a fire swept through a residential area in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province during the early hours of Monday, according to officials.

The incident occurred around 12:25 am local time (GMT 1925 Sunday) in the Multan district, where a significant explosion caused by a Liquefied Petroleum Gas container leak shook the colony, as reported by local police.

This gas leak ignited a fire, and the force of the explosion scattered debris across a vast area, affecting the densely populated neighborhood.

Authorities confirmed that the blaze has been contained following extensive firefighting efforts. The injured have been transported to nearby medical facilities, with several in serious condition.

Local news outlets indicated that the gas tanker explosion occurred at an “illegal” LPG warehouse in Multan’s Hamid Pur Kanora region, demolishing 20 homes and partially damaging 70 others.

As reported by Pakistan's Express Tribune, “The explosion took place during refilling operations at the Industrial Estate, igniting a massive fire and dispersing debris into adjacent residential areas. Among the deceased are a minor girl and two women, with 13 of the injured in critical condition.”

The leading daily further noted that the tanker was allegedly transferring smuggled LPG to smaller bowsers and cylinders on-site. Five additional bowsers at the warehouse were also destroyed in the blast.

Officials are currently evaluating the overall damage caused by the explosion, which also disrupted daily life in the area, according to Xinhua news agency.

Incidents involving gas explosions continue to pose risks in Pakistan due to inadequate safety protocols and poor infrastructure, frequently resulting in tragic outcomes.