Islamabad— Panic gripped Pakistan’s Supreme Court on Monday after a sudden explosion shook the building in Islamabad. The blast, which occurred in the basement canteen during ongoing court hearings, left at least 12 people injured and led to an immediate evacuation of the premises.
Initial investigations suggest that a leaking gas cylinder used for maintenance work on the air-conditioning system triggered the explosion. The blast caused a loud tremor that spread through the building, sending lawyers, court staff, and visitors rushing outside in fear.
Rescue teams and police swiftly arrived on the scene, sealing off the area while the bomb disposal unit conducted a detailed inspection to rule out any security threat. Several injured individuals were taken to nearby hospitals, where two remain in critical condition with severe burn injuries.
Officials confirmed that no structural damage had compromised the integrity of the building, though hearings were temporarily halted as a safety precaution. Authorities have ordered a detailed inquiry into the cause of the gas leak and the maintenance procedures followed inside the facility.
The incident has raised concerns over safety measures at one of the country’s most secure and sensitive judicial institutions, prompting calls for stricter regulation of equipment handling within government buildings.
