Chinese Engineers Killed in Karachi Blast: Ministry Clarifies IPP Involvement

In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves across Pakistan, two Chinese engineers lost their lives in a blast in Karachi. This event has raised numerous questions regarding the safety of foreign nationals working in the country, particularly in sensitive sectors like energy. The Finance Division of Pakistan has stepped in to clarify the situation, stating that these engineers were not involved in any negotiations related to the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) as previously reported by some media outlets.

The Finance Ministry emphasized that the claims suggesting the deceased engineers were part of the IPP talks were misleading and unfounded. They confirmed that negotiations with the IPPs are ongoing, but the engineers were not scheduled to participate in any discussions regarding the re-profiling and restructuring of energy sector debts. This clarification is crucial as it helps to dispel any misconceptions that may arise from sensationalized media reports.

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing it as an “irreparable loss” for the country. He highlighted that these engineers were working diligently on tariff reductions aimed at providing relief to the general public. Their commitment to fostering a cooperative relationship between China and Pakistan was evident, as they represented the Chinese IPPs that aimed to create a “win-win situation” for both nations.

In a related incident, an oil tanker explosion near Jinnah International Airport in Karachi resulted in chaos, claiming two lives and injuring ten others, including security personnel. The blast, which occurred close to the airport signal, was so powerful that it was heard from a considerable distance, causing panic among residents who evacuated their homes. The explosion destroyed three cars and four motorcycles, leading to significant traffic disruptions on Sharea Faisal as authorities scrambled to manage the aftermath.

Rangers and police quickly arrived at the scene, cordoning off the area to allow fire brigade teams to extinguish the flames. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control, and among the injured were three security guards, two Rangers, a police officer, a foreign national, and three civilians. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group, claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that it was executed using a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device specifically targeting Chinese engineers.

This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by foreign workers in Pakistan, particularly those involved in critical infrastructure projects. As the country continues to navigate its economic landscape, the safety of foreign nationals remains paramount. It is essential for the government to enhance security measures to protect those who contribute to the nation’s development. The loss of lives in such tragic circumstances not only affects families but also has broader implications for international relations and investment in Pakistan.