Faisalabad Mourns as Factory Explosion Claims 20 Lives
A massive explosion triggered by a boiler blast at a chemical factory in Faisalabad on Friday morning has resulted in a tragic loss of life, with at least 20 people confirmed dead and another 20 injured. The incident, which occurred in the Mansoorabad police station area near Shahab Town Kabaddi Ground, Malikpur, has sent shockwaves through the community.
Rescue Efforts and Immediate Aftermath
The powerful explosion, which officials confirm was caused by a gas leak, not only devastated the Samad Bond manufacturing factory but also caused significant damage to the surrounding residential area. The force of the blast led to the collapse of at least nine nearby houses, trapping residents under the debris.
Emergency services, including Rescue-1122 teams and police, responded swiftly to the scene. District Emergency Officer Engr Ihtesham Wahla supervised the rescue operation, which successfully pulled 21 people from the rubble. Tragically, 10 were declared dead at the scene, and four later succumbed to their injuries in the hospital.
Among the deceased were six children, with ages ranging from just 1 to 13 years old, highlighting the profound domestic impact of the industrial disaster. The victims included both factory workers and local residents who were in their homes.
Official Response and Investigation Launched
Deputy Commissioner Faisalabad Nadeem Nasir provided the grim casualty figures to reporters, noting that several of the injured are in critical condition. Authorities have expressed concerns that the death toll may still rise as the cooling process continues and the rescue operation nears its end.
In a decisive move, police have taken four individuals, including the factory manager, into custody as part of the investigation into the incident. Commissioner Raja Jahangir Anwar announced that a five-member committee will be formed to determine the exact cause of the explosion.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has taken serious notice of the tragedy. She has expressed her deep condolences to the grieving families and has demanded a detailed report from the Faisalabad Commissioner.
The community of Faisalabad is now left to mourn the loss of its residents, a stark reminder of the critical need for stringent industrial safety protocols to prevent such catastrophes in the future.
