70% of blaze reportedly brought under control as Iranian brigades, FC, police, district administration work together
A massive fireball due to the explosion of an LPG tanker in Taftan, Balochistan, February 19, 2026. PHOTO: SCREENGRAB
QUETTA:
A massive explosion occurred late on Wednesday night in Taftan, a border town in Balochistan, after a stationary LPG tanker suddenly caught fire near the Customs House. The fire broke out after reports of a gas leak or technical malfunction in the tanker, which quickly spread throughout the area.
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The explosion has so far led to the death of one person, while six others, including Assistant Commissioner Naeem Shahwani of Taftan, suffered burn injuries, according to an official police statement. The injured individuals were immediately transferred to the hospital, with some in critical condition being referred to Quetta.
According to police and rescue sources, the fire, which initially started due to a gas leak, intensified rapidly, leading to a significant explosion. The blast’s sound was heard from miles away, and it destroyed nearly a dozen warehouses and surrounding homes.
As rescue teams from the district administration and local authorities rushed to the scene, a powerful explosion erupted within the tanker. The blast sent flames soaring into the sky, which spread to nearby areas, including a market and residential areas, causing widespread panic.
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Rescue operations involve a joint effort by district administration, police, Frontier Corps (FC), and Iranian fire brigades. Initial reports suggest that 70% of the fire has been contained, but efforts to extinguish it entirely are still ongoing.
Due to the risk of further explosion, nearby residents were evacuated late at night. Authorities have stated that the situation is now under control, and an initial investigation is underway. Preliminary reports suggest the accident may have been caused by negligence in gas transportation or a technical failure.
