SAHIWAL/PAKPATTAN – A routine afternoon turned into a tragedy in the Hasanpura locality of Pakpattan when a pressure cooker exploded, leaving a young woman and her five-year-old daughter with significant burn injuries just before Iftar.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred as Alina (28), wife of Shahzad, was preparing the evening meal for her family. According to reports, she had just moved the pressure cooker aside in the kitchen when it suddenly burst.
The force of the explosion and the escaping steam struck Alina and her minor daughter, Mahjabeen (5), who was nearby at the time.
Medical Status
Rescue 1122 arrived promptly at the scene and shifted both victims to the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital. Medical staff provided the following update on their conditions:
Mahjabeen (5): Suffered burns to approximately 30% of her chest.
Alina (28): Sustained burns to her face and arms, also totaling about 30% of her body.
Hospital sources have confirmed that while the injuries are serious, both victims are currently in stable condition and receiving specialized treatment.
Safety Alert: Pressure Cooker Precautions
Kitchen accidents involving pressure cookers often spike during Ramadan due to the rush of Iftar preparations. To prevent such incidents, experts recommend:
Check the Valves: Ensure the steam vent and safety valve are clear of food particles.
Inspect the Gasket: Replace the rubber ring if it is cracked or loose.
Cool Down: Never attempt to force a cooker open or move it abruptly while it is still under high pressure.