The death toll in the leakage of mysterious toxic gas in Kemari area of Karachi shot up to 14 as five more affected people died on Tuesday.

Sindh Health Department spokesman Dr Zafar Mehdi confirmed that the number of deaths has gone up to 14. Out of the total deaths, nine people breathed their last at the Ziauddin Hospital.

Dozens of other patients have been undergoing treatment with many of them in critical condition, at various medical facilities across the megacity.

According to the hospital administration, the victims were experiencing respiratory problems, dizziness, vomits and stomachaches. The hospital has been facing a shortage of oxygen, while many patients were being shifted to other medical centres.

It is pertinent to mention here that the source of the leak reported since Sunday night remained unknown till latest updates available with the media.

Meanwhile, officials belonging to federal and provincial departments visited the area to determine the spot or/and cause of the leakage.

Later, a team of the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency visited the region and inspected tanker (ship) containing soybean oil.

On the other hand, factories, companies, schools and colleges in Kemari have been closed owing to poisonous gas leakage in the area. Residents appealed to the concerned authorities to take action and use preventive measures on a priority basis.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah visited Ziauddin Hospital and Jinnah Hospital and inquired about the health of gas-affected people. He also directed the administration to use all resources to provide best treatment to the patients.

Talking to the reporters, the chief minister said every possible step will be taken for the treatment of the patients.–INP