30 killed in DG Khan blast

15/12/2009
At least 30 people were killed and about 50 injured as a result of an explosion near Cantt police station and General Bus Stand in Dera Ghazi Khan on Thursday.According to a private TV channel, a planted bomb blasted with a bang near Imambargah Wadani. More than 100 people were attending the religious congregation near here at the time of the blast. According to Rescue officials, 30 people were killed and more than 50 were injured in the blast. The blast badly damaged the window-panes of the nearby buildings. It is not yet clear whether it was suicide blast or otherwise, however, most of the eye-witnesses are of the view that the bomb was planted near the imambargah.Police, rescue 1122 and local administration rushed the spot and shifted the injured into district headquarter hospital. The condition of scores of injured is said to be critical. Emergency has been declared in city's hospitals. Citizens have been asked to donate blood to ensure proper treatment of the injured.President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani have strongly condemned the bomb blast, which caused loss of precious human lives and injuries.The President and the Prime Minister in their separate messages deplored the loss of innocent lives and directed the health authorities to provide best medical care to the injured.They also directed the concerned authorities to initiate an immediate inquiry into this tragic incident and bring the culprits to justice. The President and the Prime Minister conveyed their sympathies to the families of the victims of the bomb blast.Separately, Punjab CM Shahbaz Sharif condemned the bomb blast at DG Khan and expressed his deep sense of grief and sorrow over the loss of precious human lives.The CM called for a detailed report from IG Punjab Police and Home Secretary. He has also directed Secretary Health to ensure provision of immediate and best medical facilities to the affectees. He has also directed Commissioner DG Khan to personally supervise the rescue activities. In his condolence message, the CM has prayed that may Allah Almighty rest the departed souls in eternal peace and grant strength and courage to the bereaved families to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity.