Nushki Oil Tanker Fire: 20 People Dead

A heartbreaking tragedy struck the district of Nushki, Balochistan, as a devastating oil tanker fire claimed at least 20 lives and left several others injured. The incident occurred when an oil tanker overturned and exploded, triggering a massive fire that engulfed people nearby.

• Oil tanker accident in Nushki leads to a massive explosion

• The death toll rises to 20, with more victims critically injured

• Fire erupted after locals gathered to collect leaking fuel

• Burn victims were shifted to hospitals in Quetta and Karachi

• Rescue operations launched; local authorities begin investigation

• Prime Minister and Balochistan CM express grief and order an inquiry

On a quiet morning near the Malang Abad area in Nushki, a district in Balochistan, an oil tanker overturned due to a technical failure or possible overspeeding. The vehicle began leaking fuel, attracting nearby residents who tried to collect the oil.

Moments later, a spark — possibly caused by static electricity or a cigarette — ignited the spilled fuel, resulting in a massive explosion.

• Around 9:00 AM: An Oil tanker overturns while navigating a sharp turn

• Local approach with cans to collect leaked oil

• A sudden blast occurs, setting dozens of people on fire

• Fire spreads rapidly due to the Burning nature of the fuel

• Emergency services rush to the scene and begin the rescue

• 20 people have been confirmed dead so far

• Several others sustained serious burn injuries, with some in critical condition

• Most victims were residents, including children and daily wage workers

• A few injured were airlifted to burn units in Quetta and Karachi for better treatment

The medical facilities in Nushki were quickly overwhelmed, prompting authorities to:

• Shift severely injured victims to Quetta Civil Hospital and Karachi’s Burn Centers

• Deploy emergency medical teams to Nushki

• Arrange burn care units, ventilators, and IV fluids through the Balochistan Health Department

Doctors stated that many victims had 70% or more burns, significantly reducing their chances of survival.

“People were rushing with buckets to collect oil. Suddenly, there was a loud bang and everyone was on fire. It was a nightmare,” said a shopkeeper near the accident site.

Unfortunately, such incidents are not new in Pakistan. The practice of collecting fuel from leaking tankers is widespread in many rural areas due to:

• Extreme poverty and lack of awareness

• Limited access to necessities

• Rising fuel prices, making oil a valuable commodity

• Lack of strict law enforcement in rural accident zones

This is a deadly pattern that continues to claim innocent lives every few years.

Following the explosion, rescue teams from the Civil Defence, Edhi Foundation, and the local administration arrived at the scene:

• Fire was brought under control after several hours

• Roads were blocked to prevent further danger

• Bodies were shifted to the Nushki District Hospital for identification

• Police and forensic teams launched an investigation

"This is a national tragedy. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for the swift recovery of the injured."

"An immediate inquiry has been ordered. Strict action will be taken if negligence is found."

The Chief Minister also announced compensation for the victims’ families, including:

• Rs. 1 million for each deceased

• Rs. 500,000 for each injured individual

The Nushki oil tanker fire is a tragic reminder of how poverty, ignorance, and system failures can result in unimaginable loss of life. This wasn’t just an accident — it was a failure of policy, public awareness, and safety protocols.