Devastating Glue Factory Explosion Claims 16 Lives in Faisalabad, Pakistan
A tragic incident struck the Malikpur area of Faisalabad, Punjab province, when a glue-making factory was obliterated by a powerful explosion. The blast, which occurred around 5 AM local time on a Friday, led to the confirmed deaths of at least 16 individuals and left seven others injured. The sheer force of the explosion not only caused the factory's roof to collapse but also damaged several nearby homes, sparking fires in at least three residences.
Gas Leak Suspected as Cause
Initial investigations point towards a gas leak within the factory's chemical warehouse as the likely trigger for the catastrophic event. Faisalabad Commissioner Raja Jahangir Anwar was cited by local reports regarding these preliminary findings. The impact was particularly severe on the surrounding residential areas, with a heartbreaking confirmation that six children were among those who perished in the tragedy.
Rescue Efforts and Accountability
Emergency rescue crews were immediately deployed to the site, meticulously searching through piles of debris to extract victims and provide assistance. The seven injured individuals were quickly transported to a nearby hospital for essential medical treatment. In a move towards accountability, authorities have apprehended the factory manager. However, the search continues for the factory owner, who reportedly fled the scene shortly after the explosion.
Pattern of Industrial Accidents
This latest incident underscores a persistent issue of industrial safety in Pakistan. Such factory-related explosions and fires are unfortunately not uncommon in the country. Recent history includes a similar incident in 2024, when an explosion at a textile mill, also in Faisalabad, resulted in a dozen fatalities. Furthermore, just last week, a blast at a firecracker factory in Karachi claimed four lives and injured eleven others, highlighting the urgent need for stringent safety regulations and enforcement across industrial sectors.