Huge Blast Hits Rawalpindi Safe Zone

RAWALPINDI: A large blast Monday morning has killed at least 10 people and injured at least 25 in the garrison city of Rawalpindi, near the capital Islamabad, according to police and local rescue services.

RAWALPINDI: A large blast Monday morning has killed at least 10 people and injured at least 25 in the garrison city of Rawalpindi, near the capital Islamabad, according to police and local rescue services.

According to reports, the explosion occurred when a car standing in the parking lot of the Shalimar Hotel exploded.

The hotel is located on Mall Road, within the high-security safe zone of Rawalpindi. Pakistan Army’s headquarters, GHQ, and the State Bank of Pakistan building are several hundred metres away.

Security forces have cordoned off the area, while military personnel have also arrived at the scene of the explosion.

Rescue services have begun rescue efforts for those trapped under the debris and several injured people have been taken to nearby hospitals.

The government has declared emergency in hospitals across the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

The attack comes amidst a deadly wave of terrorist attacks which have killed over 190 in the last month. —DawnNews