A local court in Karachi has held Sui Southern Gas Company responsible for negligence in a tragic gas explosion case, ordering the company to pay Rs30 million compensation to the affected family.
The case stems from a devastating incident in October 2022 in Orangi Town’s Millat Colony, where a gas leak explosion inside a home resulted in the deaths of two individuals. The lawsuit was filed by the daughter of the victims, seeking justice for the loss of her parents.
During the proceedings, the plaintiff’s lawyer argued that SSGC failed to act despite receiving repeated complaints about gas leakage in the area. He emphasized that the company is legally responsible for maintaining gas pipelines and ensuring public safety. According to the claim, this negligence directly led to the fatal explosion.
On the other hand, SSGC denied all allegations, stating that there was no confirmed gas leak from its infrastructure. The defense also argued that the claimant was not a registered consumer, questioning the validity of the compensation request.
However, the court found sufficient evidence to support the plaintiff’s claims. It noted that a witness from SSGC acknowledged the authenticity of key evidence presented in court. Based on this, the judge concluded that the explosion occurred due to a gas leakage and that the company failed to take necessary preventive measures.
The court further highlighted that utility providers have a legal duty to ensure the safety of citizens’ lives and property. Failure to fulfill this responsibility, it stated, can lead to serious consequences, as seen in this case.
Under the Fatal Accidents Act, the court awarded Rs15 million per victim, totaling Rs30 million, and directed SSGC to pay the compensation within one month.
This verdict underscores the importance of accountability and reinforces the need for strict safety measures in essential service sectors.
