Death Toll Rises to 16 in Soldier Bazaar Blast as Debris Removal Begins in Karachi

Karachi, February 19, 2026 – The death toll from the devastating explosion in Soldier Bazaar No 3, Karachi, has risen to 16, including four children and six women, rescue officials confirmed on Thursday. At least 14 others were injured in the incident.

The blast occurred on the first floor of a three-storey residential building late Wednesday night, causing part of the structure to collapse. Rescue teams used all available resources to conduct search and recovery operations.

Cause Under Investigation

According to DIG East Dr Farrukh Lanjar, initial reports suggest the explosion was caused by a gas leak, possibly from a cylinder. However, he said the exact nature of the blast would be confirmed after a chemical examination.

Lanjar added that authorities would determine whether the building was constructed legally and that action would be taken against those responsible once the investigation is complete.

Victims Include Women and Children

Among those killed were a 10-year-old girl, Nazia, and a 60-year-old man, Mohammad Riaz. Rescue officials also recovered the bodies of a 17-year-old girl, a 19-year-old girl, and an 18-year-old woman from the rubble. Several other women were among the deceased, while identification of one victim is still underway.

A 14-year-old girl was rescued in injured condition. Several children were among the wounded and were shifted to hospital for treatment.

Rescue officials confirmed that the search operation has now been completed, and work to remove the debris from the site has begun.

Police have cordoned off the area and tightened security as authorities continue investigations into the deadly blast.