Islamabad: A powerful gas cylinder explosion in Sector G-7/2 claimed the lives of the bride, the groom and four other family members, while more than 15 people sustained injuries as rescue teams completed a large-scale operation in the area.
An ICT Police spokesperson told reporter on Sunday that the blast occurred inside a house where wedding celebrations were underway. The explosion caused the roof to collapse and damaged at least four nearby houses. All individuals trapped under debris were recovered after an extensive search and rescue operation.
Fatalities (Six people lost their lives )
According to police, the deceased were identified as:
Joran Bibi, wife of Aslam Masih
Shakeel, son of unknown
Sheri Hanif, son of Hanif Masih (the groom)
Mehak, wife of Sheri Hanif (the bride)
Naeem, son of Yaqoob Masih
Waseem, son of Yaqoob Masih
Police confirmed that multiple members of the same extended family, including the newlywed couple, lost their lives in the tragic incident.
Injured (15+ shifted to hospitals)
More than 15 injured persons were shifted to PIMS, Polyclinic and the Burn Centre. The injured include:
Kashif, son of Javed
Salma, wife of Shakeel
Mukhtaran Bibi, wife of Bashir Masih
Aamir, son of Nazar Masih
Farzana Naeem, wife of Naeem
Sunil’s daughter (admitted to Children’s Ward)
Maryam, daughter of Waseem
Rabta, wife of Waseem
Aaryan, son of Waseem
Ijaz Masih, son of Saeed (40), admitted at Burn Centre
Aina, a 7-year-old girl, was admitted to Burn Centre
Police said additional names will be confirmed after complete medical documentation.
DIG Jawad Tariq supervises rescue operations
The spokesperson said that DIG Islamabad Muhammad Jawad Tariq arrived at the scene and supervised the rescue operation. Senior police officers, Rescue 1122, CDA Fire Brigade, K-9 units, and bomb disposal squads worked jointly to clear debris and ensure no one remained trapped.
Thermal imaging and specialized equipment were used during the search.
Cause under investigation
Initial findings suggest a gas leakage led to the deadly blast. Forensic teams have collected evidence, and further investigation is underway to determine the exact cause and ignition source.
Police appeal
ICT Police urged citizens to follow gas safety protocols during winter and immediately report hazards or emergencies to Pucar-15.