Karachi Blast Near Firecracker Warehouse Injures 34 People

KARACHI – Thursday, August 21, 2025 – At least 34 people were injured when a powerful explosion tore through a shop next to a firecracker warehouse on MA Jinnah Road. The blast triggered a massive fire and repeated smaller explosions, sending panic across the busy area.

Blast and Immediate Damage

The explosion was so strong that it shattered shop windows, damaged nearby vehicles, and filled the area with thick smoke drifting toward Lines Area. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes with people bleeding and running for safety.

The affected building was a ground-plus-two structure. It housed shops selling medical equipment along with the firecracker storage unit. Police said flammable materials, including oxygen cylinders, had to be quickly removed to prevent a bigger tragedy.

Injuries and Hospital Updates

Police surgeon Dr. Summaiya Syed Tariq confirmed that 34 people were injured. Of them, 20 were taken to Jinnah Hospital and 14 to Civil Hospital Karachi. At least four patients are in critical condition, including one who required immediate surgery.

Doctors reported that many victims suffered burns and shrapnel wounds caused by flying glass after the blast. One injured person is a 70-year-old man with a broken leg bone.

Rescue and Firefighting Efforts

Police and Rangers quickly cordoned off MA Jinnah Road near Sea Breeze Plaza. The road was sealed from both sides to keep people away from danger.

Firefighting teams used 10 fire tenders in hours-long efforts to bring the blaze under control. Intermittent explosions made the operation more difficult. After the fire was contained, cooling operations began to ensure no further flare-ups.

Warehouse Owners Under Investigation

Police confirmed that the warehouse belonged to two brothers, both of whom were injured in the blast. One of them has given a statement, which will be included in the investigation.

A rescue worker told the media that “there was an entire firecracker factory at the back of the building where explosives were being packed.”

Government Response

Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar condemned the storage of explosive material in populated areas. He revealed that the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) had previously taken action against the same warehouse owner.

He also said that powers to regulate explosive materials were shifted to the federal government two months ago. “It is shocking that people are still keeping explosives inside the city. We will take strict action against those responsible,” Lanjar added.