At least 153 people are burned alive when an oil tanker overturned and EXPLODED as villagers raced to collect the free fuel in Pakistan

Around 140 people are thought to have been injured in the explosion, many with 80 per cent burns. Pictured: The aftermath of the explosion near Ahmedpur East 

At least 153 people were killed and around 140 injured in a fire that broke out after an oil tanker overturned in central Pakistan and crowds rushed to collect the fuel.

The tragedy came one day before Pakistan was due to begin Eid ul-Fitr celebrations marking the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, with many roads crowded as people travel home for the holidays.

Images of the crash showed rising flames and a thick plume of smoke, along with charred vehicles.

The tanker crashed near the town of Ahmedpur East, 416 miles south of the capital Islamabad.

Some 140 people were wounded, including 40 in critical condition, said Mohammad Baqar, an official with local rescue services, adding that the toll was expected to rise.

Pictured: The burst and burned out oil tanker that exploded and killed at least 153 in Pakistan

Pictured: Some of the charred motorbikes at the scene where villagers are reported to have rushed towards the tanker in a bid to collect its fuel

Horrific: At least 153 people were killed when an overturned oil tanker exploded in Pakistan. Dozens more have suffered severe burns