Woman dies, three injured during stampede in rations distribution

A woman was killed while three others sustained injuries during a stampede at a rations distribution event in Baldia Town.

The unfortunate incident occurred at the Parda Park near D-19 Bus Stop in Madina Colony where a large crowd had gathered to receive rations. During the commotion, 35-year-old Mehnaz, wife of Arif, a resident of Sector C-3, lost her life, while three other women sustained minor injuries.

The injured were taken to the Civil Hospital Karachi for medical treatment. SHO Qamar Abbas told the media that the rations distribution event had been organised by the Union Committee (UC) 9 vice chairman, Shehzad Qadri, in collaboration with philanthropists.

Police, including female officers, had been informed in advance and were present at the scene. However, they were not able to control the massive crowd of women that gathered there to receive food items.

As the distribution of rations began, a sudden stampede broke out near the entrance, leading to the tragedy. The UC vice chairman confirmed that they had notified the police in writing before the distribution. The deceased woman, who was fasting and had already been feeling unwell, arrived at the park earlier in the day. Upon noticing her condition, the organisers moved her to a separate room for rest.

However, when her condition did not improve, an ambulance was called immediately. As they were transporting her to the ambulance, chaos erupted at the entrance, where an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 women had gathered, leading to the unfortunate incident. Authorities said they were investigating the circumstances surrounding the stampede.