ARIFWALA – A devastating fire caused by a gas cylinder explosion claimed the lives of a woman and her two minor daughters in a village near Arifwala on Tuesday. The incident has left the local community in deep shock and mourning.
Details of the Incident
According to rescue officials and eyewitness reports, the tragedy occurred in Village 2-EB while the mother, identified as 26-year-old Safia, was preparing a meal on a gas stove.
It is reported that a sudden gas leakage led to a massive fire that engulfed the kitchen and adjacent rooms within seconds. The intensity of the flames prevented the victims from escaping.
Deceased: Safia (26), and her two daughters, Gulshan (3) and Fazilat (1).
Injured: The head of the family sustained life-threatening burn injuries while attempting to save his wife and children. He was rushed to a nearby hospital and later shifted to Sahiwal Teaching Hospital in critical condition.
Chief Minister’s Response
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif expressed her profound grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives. In an official statement, she extended her heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the bereaved family members.
The Chief Minister has issued the following directives:
Medical Care: The administration must ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured father.
Crackdown on Substandard Cylinders: She directed relevant authorities to strictly enforce a ban on the sale and purchase of low-quality, substandard gas cylinders to prevent such recurring accidents.
Safety Audit: Local authorities have been asked to raise awareness regarding gas safety protocols during the winter season.
Safety Warning
Rescue 1122 and local authorities have urged citizens to check for gas leaks before lighting stoves and to avoid using old or repaired cylinders. Negligence in handling gas appliances remains a leading cause of domestic fires in the region.