Ravi Road Gas Cylinder Explosion Claims Four Lives, Sparks Safety Debate

In a tragic incident on Wednesday, a gas cylinder explosion at a filling shop on Ravi Road, Lahore, claimed the lives of four people, including two children, and left six others critically injured. The explosion occurred during the refilling process and triggered a massive fire that engulfed the shop within minutes.

Rescue 1122 officials reported that the blast resulted from a cylinder bursting while being refilled. The fire spread rapidly, trapping multiple people inside. Emergency responders launched a swift rescue operation, but despite their efforts, four victims — including minors — succumbed to their injuries on the spot.

Eyewitnesses described the horrifying scene, with flames shooting high into the air and thick black smoke blanketing the surroundings. “It was like a bomb exploded,” said one shopkeeper. Local residents rushed to help victims before rescue teams arrived.

The six injured individuals were taken to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment. Authorities have not yet disclosed the names of the deceased as families are being notified.

Firefighters continued their efforts to fully extinguish the fire and clear the area late into the evening. Officials have launched an inquiry to determine whether the shop was following necessary safety protocols and if any negligence contributed to the tragedy.

The incident has once again raised alarm bells about the widespread but poorly regulated gas refilling shops operating in residential and commercial zones of Lahore.