Six dead as suspected gas leak triggers building collapse in Karachi

At least six people were killed and several others injured after part of a residential building collapsed following a suspected gas leak in the Soldier Bazaar area of Karachi, rescue officials said Thursday. The blast occurred on the first floor of the building late Wednesday night, causing a partial collapse, rescue sources at the scene said. Authorities added that all available resources were being used in the ongoing search operation. Police said initial information suggests the explosion may have been caused by a gas leak, possibly from a cylinder or a gas suction machine, according to media reports. Rescue teams pulled several people from the rubble. A 10-year-old girl, identified as Nazia, and a 60-year-old man, Mohammad Riaz, were among those killed, officials said. The body of a woman was also recovered, while the identification of another victim was underway. Officials said a 14-year-old girl was rescued in an injured condition. Children were among the wounded, who were shifted to hospital for treatment. Rescue authorities said two people were still believed to be trapped under the debris. Narrow streets surrounding the building were making the operation difficult, they added. Police cordoned off the area and tightened security as search efforts continued.