A devastating gas cylinder explosion has torn through a wedding celebration in the heart of Pakistan's capital, claiming the lives of eight people, including the bride and groom. The tragedy unfolded overnight as guests gathered for the reception at a private home in Islamabad.
Details of the Tragedy
According to statements from Islamabad police, the powerful blast occurred during the wedding reception, causing a section of the residential building to collapse. The explosion killed at least eight individuals and injured seven others. Forensic teams were swiftly deployed to the scene, using metal detectors to sift through the debris as part of the ongoing investigation into the precise cause.
Official Response and Investigation
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued a statement expressing profound grief over the loss of life and extended his condolences to the bereaved families. He directed health authorities to ensure the injured receive the best possible medical treatment and ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Police confirmed the blast happened in a residential area in central Islamabad and that their inquiries are continuing.
Wider Context of Gas Safety
This catastrophic event highlights a persistent danger in many Pakistani households. Due to chronically low natural gas pressure, countless families rely on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders for cooking and heating. Faulty equipment, poor maintenance, or gas leaks from these cylinders have been linked to numerous deadly accidents across the country over the years.
The community in Islamabad is now in mourning following this heart-breaking incident, which turned a joyous celebration into a scene of destruction and loss.
