Rescue workers have ended the search operation at a residential building in Karachi, where a gas leak explosion claimed 16 lives.

Sources said the operation at Gul Rana Colony, Soldier Bazaar, Karachi, was called off after authorities confirmed that no other individuals were believed to be trapped beneath the debris.

A gas leak triggered the explosion during Sehri, authorities said.

Rescue officials said that bodies and injured persons were recovered from the rubble and shifted to nearby hospitals.

Rescue 1122 Chief Operating Officer Dr Abid Jalaluddin told the media that the three-storey building had one room on each floor.

A large portion of the building collapsed following the blast, creating difficulties for rescue workers due to heavy debris and limited space.

He said teams had to proceed with extreme caution during the operation.

Officials said narrow streets in the area hampered the movement of heavy machinery to the site.

Despite the difficulties, rescue workers continued their efforts and managed to retrieve all affected individuals.

Rescue 1122 DG Brigadier Wajid said initial information suggests the explosion occurred on the building’s first floor.

A bomb disposal squad inspected the site after the incident.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the explosion was caused by a gas leak, with no evidence of a gas cylinder blast.

Authorities noted that the kitchen had faulty gas fittings and a plastic pipe was being used for the gas supply, increasing the likelihood of leakage.

Gas suction machines were also installed in the house.

According to Abid Farooq, gas supply in the area had remained suspended for several days and resumed suddenly last night with high pressure.

He said the explosion may have been caused by an open gas valve, a short circuit, or the striking of a match.

Officials added that such incidents in the city are often the result of gas leaks rather than cylinder explosions.

Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow over the incident.

In a message, he conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and directed authorities to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured.

The president also instructed authorities to strictly enforce building codes and directed the provincial government to conduct a thorough inquiry into all aspects of the incident.