Blast and intense firing rock Karachi’s Gulistan-e-Jauhar

Panic spread across Karachi's Gulistan-e-Jauhar area on Saturday after residents reported hearing a loud explosion followed by heavy gunfire

Panic spread across Karachi’s Gulistan-e-Jauhar area on Saturday after residents reported hearing a loud explosion followed by heavy gunfire near the Mosamiyat bus stop on University Road. The sudden incident created fear among people in the neighbourhood, prompting an immediate response from emergency services and law enforcement agencies.

According to initial reports, the explosion was heard moments before intense firing erupted in the area. The loud sounds caused alarm among nearby residents and motorists, many of whom rushed to safer locations as uncertainty surrounded the nature of the incident.

Rescue 1122 confirmed receiving information about a possible blast near Block 5 of Gulistan-e-Jauhar. A spokesperson for the emergency service said the report was received by the Central Command and Control Centre, which immediately dispatched rescue teams to the location to assess the situation and provide assistance if required.

Upon arriving at the scene, Rescue 1122 personnel began evaluating the area to determine the cause of the explosion and whether there were any casualties or property damage. Officials said rescue teams remained on-site while gathering information and coordinating with other emergency responders.

A large contingent of police also reached the area soon after the incident was reported. Security personnel cordoned off the affected location and launched an initial investigation to establish the sequence of events. Officers began collecting evidence and interviewing eyewitnesses in an effort to determine whether the blast and gunfire were linked to criminal activity, terrorism, or another cause.

The incident caused significant disruption in the surrounding area, with traffic slowing on University Road as security forces and emergency vehicles took control of the scene. Residents were advised to avoid the area until authorities completed their preliminary assessment.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah took immediate notice of the reports and sought detailed information from senior police officials. According to a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s spokesperson, Shah contacted the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sindh and the Additional Inspector General (AIG) Karachi to obtain updates on the developing situation.

The chief minister directed law enforcement authorities to determine the exact nature of the incident without delay and ensure that all necessary security and rescue measures were implemented. He also instructed police officials to submit a comprehensive report once the investigation establishes the facts surrounding the explosion and firing.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the blast or the identity of those involved in the reported exchange of gunfire. Officials are examining evidence from the site while reviewing eyewitness accounts to piece together what occurred.

The incident once again highlights the importance of a swift emergency response in Pakistan’s largest city, where security agencies remain on high alert to deal with any potential threats. Police and rescue officials have assured the public that investigations are ongoing and that every effort is being made to determine the circumstances behind the incident.

As of now, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Further details regarding casualties, damages, or the motive behind the explosion and gunfire are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.