Oil Tanker Fire Kills 120 People in East Pakistan

Pakistan oil tanker truck explosion kills at least 120

Islamabad, Shawwal 1438/26 June 2017 (MINA) – At least 120 people were killed and over 140 others sustained injuries as an oil tanker caught fire after it overturned in Bahawalpur city of Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province on Sunday, said officials.

A senior administrative official, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Rana Mohammad Saleem Abdul was quoted by KUNA as saying that the tanker overturned after trying to make a sharp turn at Ahmad Pur Sharqia area of Bahawalpur and is reported to have exploded after fuel leaking from its damaged container caught fire.

A large crowd of people, including women and children, had gathered at the scene to collect the leaked oil when the fire erupted.

At least six cars and 12 motorcycles passing nearby were also burnt in the blaze. The official confirmed that around 120 people were killed and over 140 others wounded in the fire.

The firefighters extinguished the fire after fighting with flames for over two hours. Rescue teams initiated the rescue operation where the bodies and injured were transferred to the nearest government hospitals.

Army helicopters have also been sent for evacuation of the injured. A senior official at the hospital, Dr. Rizwan Naseer said many of the badly burnt bodies are beyond recognition. At least 40 amongst the injured are in critical conditions and may be transferred to hospitals in other cities for treatment.

A statement by PM Office read, “Prime Minister, Muhammad Nawaz Sharif has expressed deep grief over the heavy loss of life in the unfortunate accident of oil tanker fire at Ahmad Pur Sharqia, Bahawalpur.” (T/RS5/RS1)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)