Quetta: A fire broke out at a customs warehouse in the Lak Pass area of Mastung district, triggering a massive blaze after a gas bowser parked inside the compound exploded. At least 31 people were injured in the incident, including four in critical condition. Firefighting operations are ongoing with the assistance of 10 fire brigade vehicles.
According to details, the fire erupted suddenly on Sunday at a customs warehouse in Lak Pass where confiscated goods were stored. The flames rapidly engulfed the entire compound. Officials said the presence of gas and spirit containers inside the premises turned the situation highly dangerous.
Chief Fire Officer of the Metropolitan Corporation Quetta, Abdul Haq Achakzai, described the fire as extremely severe, noting that bowsers loaded with gas and spirit were present at the site. He said fire brigade personnel and security forces jointly evacuated thousands of people from the compound to safe locations.
He added that one gas bowser initially exploded due to the fire, injuring 31 people in its impact, four of whom are in critical condition. Ten fire brigade vehicles are engaged in extinguishing the blaze, but strong winds, the presence of multiple bowsers, and narrow access are hampering the operation.
Meanwhile, the Mastung district administration has suspended traffic on the national highway. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
