The death toll from a devastating gas tanker explosion in Multan, Pakistan, has risen to 18, as reported by local police and hospital officials on Tuesday. The tragic incident occurred last week when a truck transporting liquified petroleum gas (LPG) caught fire in an industrial area of the city, located in the populous Punjab province.
Initially, authorities reported five fatalities and approximately two dozen injuries following the explosion on January 27. However, the situation worsened as the week progressed, with Dr. Mohammad Wasim from Nishtar Hospital confirming that an additional 13 individuals succumbed to their injuries. Currently, seven others remain in critical condition, highlighting the ongoing human toll of this disaster.
The explosion not only claimed lives but also inflicted significant damage on surrounding properties. Senior police official Mohammad Bashir stated that the blast caused destruction to nearby shops and homes, with many deaths resulting from the ensuing fire and the collapse of several building roofs.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the explosion occurred during the illegal transfer of LPG from the tanker to cylinders. Reports indicate that the individuals involved may have bribed the truck driver, who has since been arrested in connection with the incident. This raises serious concerns about safety practices and regulatory enforcement regarding the handling of hazardous materials in the region.
As the community mourns the loss of life and grapples with the aftermath of the explosion, questions about safety regulations and the need for stricter enforcement are likely to come to the forefront. Local authorities are under pressure to ensure that such a tragedy does not recur, as the risks associated with the transportation and handling of flammable gases remain a critical concern in densely populated areas.