Cylinder blast at Pakistani Supreme Court injures 12, two in critical condition VIDEO

A powerful gas cylinder explosion in the basement of the Pakistani Supreme Court on November 4 left 12 people injured, including two in critical condition, initial reports from the scene states.

The blast occurred during repair work on the building’s central air-conditioning system, sources confirmed. The sudden explosion triggered panic throughout the courthouse, as shockwaves reverberated across the premises, prompting lawyers, court staff, and employees to rush outside for safety, Samaa TV reports.

Courtroom No. 6 was reportedly among the most affected sections of the building. At the time of the incident, Justice Ali Baqar Najafi and Justice Shahzad Malik were presiding over a hearing. Witnesses described a loud blast that shook the lower floors of the complex and sent people fleeing toward open areas.

Emergency response teams and police reached the site within minutes, activating safety protocols and assisting in the evacuation. The injured workers, who were performing maintenance work near the air-conditioning plant, were swiftly moved to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Hospital sources said that most of the injured are out of danger, though two individuals remain in critical condition.

Addressing the media outside the court, Islamabad Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ali Nasir Rizvi confirmed that the blast was caused by a gas leak in the canteen area of the basement.

“Gas had been leaking in the canteen for several days,” Rizvi said. “The explosion occurred during the repair of the air conditioner. Experts have also confirmed that it was a gas explosion.”

The police chief further stated that 12 people had been injured, with three shifted to PIMS Hospital and nine to Polyclinic Hospital. He added that the AC technician sustained severe burns, with 80% of his body affected.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the precise cause of the explosion and assess whether safety lapses contributed to the incident. The basement café, where the blast occurred, is reportedly reserved exclusively for Supreme Court staff.

By Vafa Guliyeva