At least eight people, including the bride and groom, were killed early Sunday when a gas cylinder exploded at a house in Pakistan's capital following a wedding reception, police and officials said. The blast occurred while guests who had gathered to celebrate the marriage were sleeping inside the house, causing part of the building to collapse, according to Islamabad police. Seven other people were injured in the explosion. Police said the incident took place in a residential neighborhood in the heart of Islamabad, adding that nearby homes were also damaged by the force of the blast. A government administrator, Sahibzada Yousaf, said authorities were alerted in the early hours of Sunday and that investigations were ongoing to determine the exact cause of the explosion. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and offered condolences to the families of the victims, according to a statement from his office. He directed health authorities to ensure the injured receive the best possible medical care and ordered a full investigation into the incident. Many households in Pakistan rely on liquefied petroleum gas cylinders due to low natural gas pressure, particularly in urban areas. Such cylinders have been linked to numerous deadly accidents in the past, often caused by leaks or improper handling. Police said further details would be released as the investigation continues. — Agencies
