Two sanitation workers die, one critically ill after toxic gas exposure in Bahawalnagar manhole

BAHAWALNAGAR, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 4th Jul, 2026) Two sanitation workers died and a third was critically injured after being exposed to toxic gases while cleaning a manhole in Mahboob Colony of Chishtian tehsil on Saturday, officials said.

According to official sources, the workers were carrying out routine sewer cleaning when they descended into the manhole and were overcome by poisonous gases that had accumulated inside. Two workers died of suffocation at the scene, while a third was rescued and shifted to hospital in critical condition for treatment.

The deceased were identified as 35-year-old Shafique and 45-year-old Irfan Masih.

Rescue teams responded to the incident and recovered the victims from the manhole before launching further relief operations.

Following the incident, Deputy Commissioner Zulfiqar Ahmad Bhon ordered a formal inquiry and directed the Assistant Commissioner of Chishtian to conduct a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The sanitation supervisor concerned was suspended over alleged negligence pending the outcome of the inquiry, while officials said further action would be taken in accordance with the investigation's findings.

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