Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) following the devastating gas explosion that tore through a residential building in Soldier Bazaar, killing 16 people and injuring 15 others.
Authorities confirmed that the case was filed at the Soldier Bazaar police station and that the building’s owner, Mahmood Irshad, has been arrested. Investigators revealed that the structure was erected on a 40-yard plot and included three additional floors constructed illegally.
According to initial findings, the explosion occurred during Sehri and was caused by a gas leak rather than a cylinder blast, as initially speculated. The three-storey building reportedly had a single-room portion on each level.
Officials stated that faulty gas connections were discovered in the kitchen area, including the use of a plastic pipe for gas supply — a highly unsafe practice that significantly increases the risk of leakage. Gas suction machines had also been installed inside the house.
Investigators further disclosed that gas supply to the locality had remained suspended for several days before being restored suddenly the previous night with reportedly high pressure. Authorities believe the blast may have been triggered by an open gas valve, an electrical short circuit, or even a lit match in the presence of accumulated gas.
Law enforcement officials emphasized that similar incidents in Karachi are more commonly linked to gas leaks rather than cylinder explosions, urging residents to ensure proper maintenance of gas fittings to prevent further tragedies.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to assess responsibility and safety violations surrounding the ill-fated building.
