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ISLAMABAD, Jan 11 (APP):Capital Emergency Services (CES) has completed a rescue operation after a gas cylinder explosion at a house in Islamabad’s Sector G-7/2, on Sunday morning, with authorities later confirming that the death toll had risen to eight, while 11 others were injured.
Rescue officials confirmed APP that the explosion occurred at around 7:24 am. CES immediately declared an emergency and reached the site within five minutes of receiving the call, enabling prompt rescue and medical assistance to the affected residents.
Rescue teams shifted the injured to nearby hospitals in multiple ambulances, while firefighters secured the area to prevent further hazards.
Authorities confirmed that no person remained trapped or missing following the completion of the operation.
More than 45 fire, medical and rescue personnel took part in the operation, with 10 ambulances and a rescue vehicle deployed at the scene.
Director General Capital Emergency Services Dr Abdul Rehman, along with senior officers, remained present to supervise the rescue efforts.
Providing updated details, Additional Deputy Commissioner General Sahibzada Yousaf said a total of 19 people were pulled out of the debris during the rescue operation. “Out of the 19 rescued, 11 were injured while eight lost their lives,” he said.
He added that investigations were underway to determine the exact cause of the blast. “It is being examined whether the explosion was caused by a gas cylinder bursting or due to gas leakage,” the ADC General said, adding that further details would be shared once the inquiry was completed.
Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and commended the timely response of emergency teams.
Rescue officials urged citizens to strictly observe safety precautions while using gas cylinders and gas-powered appliances, stressing the importance of regular safety inspections of cylinders, pipelines and geysers.
They advised citizens to avoid operating electrical switches or lighting flames in case of a gas leak, to immediately open doors and windows for ventilation, and to move occupants to a safe location.
Citizens were also urged to contact Rescue Helpline 1122 without delay in emergencies, as timely information ensures an effective rescue response.