A tragic fuel truck explosion in Noshki, approximately 160km west of Quetta, left the driver dead and around 60 others injured on Monday, including 20 individuals in critical condition. Among the injured were police personnel and children.
Authorities reported that the vehicle, which was used to transport Iranian petrol to local shops, was parked at the main bus and truck stand when its driver noticed a fuel tank leak. Unable to stop the leak, the driver moved the truck away from the densely populated area to an open space for safety.
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A fire broke out as the fuel tank was being welded, resulting in a powerful explosion that not only claimed the life of the driver but also injured dozens of bystanders. The explosion also caused significant damage to a fire tender present at the scene.
Deputy Commissioner Amjad Somroo stated, “The driver was burnt to death on the spot, and over 60 people who were present at the scene sustained burns.”
The injured were initially taken to the district hospital, where over 45 individuals, including police officers and children, were treated. Dr. Zafar Ali Mengal, the hospital’s medical superintendent, noted that at least 20 of the injured were in critical condition, having suffered burns covering over 40% of their bodies.
Due to the severity of the injuries and the lack of a burns ward at the district hospital, the critically injured were transferred to the Civil Hospital in Quetta. Others were treated at private hospitals in Noshki.
Dr. Abdul Hadi Kakar confirmed the arrival of 23 critically injured patients, of which 20 were referred to Bolan Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment.
Authorities are investigating the incident further.
