ISLAMABAD: (Yaseen Hashmi) A powerful explosion ripped via a gasoline cylinder shop in the Coral Sharifabad place at the outskirts of Islamabad on Tuesday, triggering a massive fire and spreading panic among residents, officers said.
According to eyewitnesses, the blast happened unexpectedly, followed by flames engulfing multiple gas cylinders inside the shop. Thick smoke and towering flames were seen from a distance, while the sound of the explosion was heard throughout nearby neighborhoods.
Rescue 1122, the fire brigade and police rushed to the scene immediately after receiving the alert. Firefighters worked to contain the blaze, while rescue teams evacuated close by stores and home buildings as a precautionary measure.
initial reports suggest the explosion was caused by a gas leak, though authorities said the exact cause would be determined after a detailed investigation. No confirmed casualties were reported till the filing of this report, officials added.
Police cordoned off the area to restrict traffic and ensure public safety, while emergency operations remained underway. officials advised citizens to keep away from the area and cooperate with rescue personnel.
authorities have launched an inquiry into the incident and stressed the importance of safety measures at gas storage and distribution factors to prevent such injuries in the future.

