At least eight people, including a newly married couple, were killed in a deadly explosion at a residential house in Islamabad, Pakistani authorities said on Sunday, as investigations focused on a suspected gas-related incident.
Police said the blast occurred in the early hours of the morning shortly after a wedding reception, when family members had gathered at the house. Initial assessments suggest the explosion was likely caused by a gas leak, though officials have not ruled out the possibility of a gas cylinder malfunction.
According to Geo News, both the bride and groom were among those killed, along with several relatives. Two neighbouring residents also lost their lives in the explosion.
Local government administrator Sahibzada Yousaf said authorities were alerted shortly after the blast and that police and emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene. He confirmed that several nearby homes sustained damage and that roads in the area were temporarily closed to facilitate rescue and recovery operations.
An official investigation is under way to determine the precise cause of the explosion, including whether it originated from a gas cylinder or a broader gas leak within the property.
Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the incident and offered condolences to the families of the victims, according to a statement from his office. He also directed health authorities to provide full medical support to anyone affected and ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the tragedy.
Gas-related accidents remain a persistent risk in Pakistan, where many households rely on gas cylinders due to low pressure in the piped natural gas supply. Such incidents have repeatedly resulted in fatalities, highlighting ongoing concerns over household safety and infrastructure standards.
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