Blast in Karachi, casualties feared

ISLAMABAD - A powerful blast stuck Pakistan’s southern port city of Karachi Thursday, damaging several buildings and leaving many people trapped under the debris.

According to media reports, the blast took place near the house of Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah. This is an upscale area where foreign consulates and five star hotels are also located.

Several casualties are feared but the nature of blast is not yet known. The nearby civil lines and a police station are believed to be the target of the blast.

Rescue teams have rushed to the spot and thick smoke is emitting from the scene. Several nearby buildings have been damaged and people are trapped under the debris.