Among the dead are women and children caught in fire at the gas pipeline in Hattar Industrial Estate
At least eight members of a household were killed and five others injured after a fire from a gas pipeline explosion in Haripur in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Hazara division, officials said on Thursday.
The fire engulfed nearby residential developments in a suburban area at Hattar Industrial Estate.
Confirming the death toll, Haripur Deputy Commissioner Wasim Ahmad said eight members of a household were killed in the incident, while five people were injured and six were rescued. “The deceased included three children, two girls, two elderly women and a man,” he added.
He said the fire had been brought under control after several hours of efforts and the rescue operation had ended.
The massive fire broke out in a gas pipeline near Colony Mor, Kot Najibullah, in Hattar Industrial Estate and spread panic in a nearby factory. Employees managed to escape, but several people were trapped in the adjacent residential area.
Rescue and fire services reached the spot immediately and considering the intensity of the fire, seven more fire engines and firemen were dispatched from Mansehra, Abbottabad, Mardan and Swabi to bring the situation under control, a Rescue 1122 spokesperson said.
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Following the incident, gas supply to Hazara division was suspended.
KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi expressed grief over the loss of life.
He said the provincial government stood with the bereaved families and provided the best treatment to the injured. He gave his assurance of all help to the affected families.
Special Assistant to the Information Minister Shafi Jan said he was deeply saddened by the incident.
“Rescue 1122 and other agencies immediately launched rescue operations as workers from nearby districts were also involved in relief work as best treatment was ensured for the injured,” he said.
“The Chief Minister also ordered the best treatment for the injured persons and promised to provide all possible support,” he added.
