Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah visited the Burns Ward of Civil Hospital, to enquire about those who suffered burns in a massive gas cylinder explosion in Hyderabad's Preetabad area a day earlier. He was accompanied by Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, Home Minister Zia Lanjar, Energy Minister Nasir Shah, and Health Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho.
The CM and his cabinet ministers were briefed that 19 patients were admitted to the Civil Hospital, with another 12 being shifted from Hyderabad to Karachi for specialised treatment. Among the 19 injured, nine are children, seven are men, and one is a woman. Two patients, including a 10-year-old child and a woman, have succumbed to their injuries.
The chief minister ensured that the injured patients were receiving optimal care, including the transfer of one patient to Patel Hospital. Interacting with patients in the ward, CM Shah directed the health minister and the hospital administration to utilise all available resources for the best possible treatment.
The chief minister instructed the health minister to personally oversee the treatment of patients at Patel Hospital.
Addressing the media, CM Shah described the gas cylinder explosion as a “tragic incident.” He explained that the explosion originated in a cylinder shop located in a garage beneath a building, triggering a series of explosions that injured 51 people.
Health Minister Dr Pechuho said that some patients are in critical condition and while the Civil Hospital has reached its capacity, arrangements are being made to accommodate the remaining patients in other hospitals.
Responding to inquiries, the chief minister acknowledged the absence of a comprehensive mechanism for preventing cylinder blasts. He noted that although laws are in place, accidents can still occur due to gas shortages. In light of the current situation, CM Shah stated that he has instructed the chief secretary to coordinate efforts among civil defence, district administration, and police.
Regarding the province's gas supply, the chief minister highlighted that despite Sindh’s significant contribution to the country's gas production (70%), the prevalent use of cylinders and issues with cylinder filling pose significant challenges that need urgent attention.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 1st, 2024.
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