Oil Tanker Catches Fire During Welding Work
At least 40 people were injured when an oil tanker exploded after catching fire in a truck depot in Balochistan’s Noshki district on Monday. According to Deputy Commissioner (DC) Amjad Soomro, welding work on the tanker caused the fire. As firefighters attempted to contain the flames, the tanker exploded, seriously injuring fire brigade personnel, police officers, and nearby citizens. Those closest to the blast suffered burns covering up to 70–80% of their bodies.
DC Soomro added that individuals with severe injuries were airlifted to Quetta, where hospitals had declared a state of emergency. Over 20 patients with serious burns are receiving specialized care, while more than 10 individuals with minor injuries have been discharged after treatment.
Emergency Declared Across Hospitals in Quetta
Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind confirmed that over 30 people suffered burn injuries in the explosion. The intensity of the blast was so severe that it engulfed even the fire brigade vehicle present at the scene. Victims were transferred to the Civil Hospital and Bolan Medical College (BMC) Hospital after receiving initial medical aid.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. According to initial assessments, a short circuit within the fuel tank may have sparked the initial fire that led to the explosion.
Background of Similar Incidents in Pakistan
Oil tanker explosions are not uncommon in Pakistan, often resulting from welding mishaps, faulty equipment, or collisions. In a comparable tragedy in 2017, 212 people were killed when an overturned fuel tanker exploded as villagers gathered to collect leaking fuel. Investigations suggested that a discarded cigarette likely ignited the catastrophic fire.
Given the highly flammable nature of the materials involved, officials have repeatedly stressed the need for strict safety protocols during the handling and maintenance of oil tankers to prevent such devastating accidents.
