UPDATE - Explosion at Pakistan firecracker warehouse leaves at least 34 injured

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By Islamuddin Sajid

ISLAMABAD (AA) - At least 34 people were injured in a massive explosion at a firecracker warehouse in Karachi, Pakistan's southern port city, police and officials said.

According to rescue officials, it is suspected that a short circuit triggered a fire in the warehouse, resulting in the huge explosion because of the presence of highly inflammable material.

The warehouse is located near Taj Complex on MA Jinnah Road in Karachi's Saddar area.

The intensity of the blast damaged nearby vehicles and smashed windows of surrounding buildings.

Police said the injured were taken to Jinnah and Civil hospitals, with a majority of them suffering injuries from being hit by broken glass.

Asad Raza, a senior Karachi police official, also said that preliminary reports suggested an electric spark triggered the fire. He added that a similar incident occurred about two years ago at the same premises.

Industrial accidents are common in Karachi, primarily due to inadequate safety standards, poor infrastructure, and negligence.