10 killed, 30 injured in blast at two eateries in Lahore

Lahore, February 23

At least 10 persons were killed and 30 others injured on Thursday when a powerful bomb blast apparently targeted two eateries here, including one serving Indian cuisine, in the second bombing in the city this month as Pakistan witnesses a surge in terror attacks.

Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique told reporters that eight people were killed and 30 other injured in the blast at the Z Block market of the Defence Housing Society (DHA).

However, two bodies were later recovered from the debris of an under-construction building where the explosive device was planted.

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He said the condition of four injured is stated to be very critical and doctors are trying their best to save their lives.

“Bombay Chowpati and Alfarno Cafe restaurants were apparently the target of terrorists. The device was planted in an under-construction building near Bombay Chowpati,” a senior police officer told PTI.

He said these restaurants were frequented by young couples.

Deputy Inspector General Lahore Police Dr Haider Ashraf said, “Apparently an explosive material was planted in an under-construction building in Z block market. We are also investigating the other aspects like that of gas leakage.”  

Punjab Police spokesman Niyab Haider, however, confirmed that it was a “planted device” that caused the explosion.

“It appears to be a planted device. However we are investigating from all aspects,” he said.

An eyewitness, Salman Iqbal, said he was busy in his work at a bank in Z block when the powerful blast took place.

“I was struck against my desk because of the impact of the blast sound and fell semi-unconscious. When I regained consciousness after a while all my colleagues were saying there is a blast outside the bank,” he said.

Iqbal said when he went outside, he saw many people lying injured on the road and crying for help. He said some of his colleagues suffered minor injuries.

Several vehicles were also damaged in the blast. Rescue officials shifted the injured to different city hospitals.

Army and Rangers personnel along with the police reached the spot and cordoned off the area.

DHA is under the control of the army. All educational institutions and trade centres in the DHA have been closed.

Besides, all major trade centres and markets in Lahore have also been closed.

Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah said the blast seemed to be aimed at sabotaging Pakistan Super League (PSL) final in Lahore.  — PTI