Soldier Bazaar blast, a young girl was miraculously rescued alive from the rubble of a collapsed residential building in Soldier Bazaar, Karachi, after a deadly gas leak explosion killed at least 16 people.

The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of February 19, 2026, during Sehri on the first day of Ramadan.

Rescue officials described the survival of the child as a miracle amid widespread destruction.

Deadly Gas Explosion in Soldier Bazaar

The explosion took place in Gul Rana Colony, located in Soldier Bazaar, Karachi. According to authorities, a suspected gas leak triggered a powerful blast inside the residential building(Soldier Bazaar blast).

The explosion caused a partial collapse of the multi-story structure. The force of the blast also shook nearby buildings.

At least 16 people were confirmed dead, while 14 others sustained injuries. The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.

Officials warned that the death toll could rise if more victims are found during ongoing rescue operations.

Child Pulled Alive from Rubble

Rescue 1122 teams reached the site immediately after receiving emergency calls. They began a search and rescue operation despite narrow streets and difficult access.

Among those rescued was a young girl identified as Kausar.

The child said she was asleep when the explosion happened.

“There was a blast, and I was trapped under the rubble,” she reportedly told rescuers.

She also revealed that she called out to her sister, who was buried under debris. Unfortunately, her sister did not survive.

Rescue officials confirmed that 14 people were pulled alive from the rubble, including the rescued child.

Investigation of Soldier Bazaar blast: Gas Leak Confirmed as Cause

The Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) conducted a preliminary investigation at the site. Officials declared that a gas leak caused the explosion.

Investigators found faulty kitchen gas fittings inside the building. They also reported that plastic pipes had been used for gas supply, which increased the risk of leakage.

Authorities further revealed that gas compressor machines were installed in the building. Residents had reportedly been facing gas shortages for several days.

Officials believe a sudden restoration of high-pressure gas supply may have contributed to the explosion.

The blast may have been triggered by:

• An open gas valve
• A short circuit
• Lighting of a match during Sehri preparation

A detailed forensic investigation is still underway.

Rescue Efforts Continue

Rescue teams used all available resources to search for survivors. Heavy machinery faced difficulty entering the area due to narrow streets.

Police cordoned off the area to prevent further risk.

Authorities are also inspecting nearby buildings to ensure structural safety.

Gas Safety Concerns Raised

This tragic incident has raised serious concerns about gas safety standards in residential buildings across Karachi.

Experts urge citizens to:

• Regularly inspect gas pipelines
• Avoid illegal gas connections
• Use approved gas fittings
• Immediately report a gas smell or leakage

Safety awareness can help prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Final Summary

A deadly gas leak explosion in Soldier Bazaar, Karachi, claimed 16 lives and injured several others in the Soldier Bazaar blast. However, a young girl was miraculously rescued alive from the collapsed building.

Investigations confirm faulty gas fittings and leakage as the likely cause. Rescue operations and safety inspections continue.

Authorities are expected to release further updates as the inquiry progresses.

Q1: What caused the Soldier Bazaar building collapse?

Initial investigations indicate the collapse was caused by a gas leak explosion inside the residential building.

Q2: How many people died in the Karachi blast?

At least 16 people were confirmed dead, and several others were injured.

Q3: Was anyone rescued from the collapsed building?

Yes, rescue teams pulled a young girl alive from the rubble along with other survivors.

Q4: Where did the explosion occur?

The explosion occurred in Gul Rana Colony, Soldier Bazaar, Karachi.

Q5: What safety measures can prevent gas explosions?

Regular inspection of gas fittings, avoiding illegal gas connections, and proper ventilation can reduce risks.