ISLAMABAD: At least 50 passengers sustained injuries when six bogies of the Islamabad Express derailed near Kala Shah Kaku town of eastern Punjab province on Friday.
The train was en route from Lahore to Islamabad when the accident occurred. Several carriages of the train overturned, prompting an emergency response amid difficult conditions caused by darkness, Pakistan Television reported.
Officials confirmed that more than 50 people sustained injuries, though no fatalities have been reported so far. Injured passengers were provided first aid on-site, while those critically hurt were moved to nearby hospitals for further treatment.
Minister takes notice
The Minister for Railways took notice of the incident and directed the CEO of Railways and the Divisional Superintendent (DS) to immediately proceed to the accident site. He also instructed railway personnel to accelerate rescue and relief operations, while dispatching medical teams to provide emergency care at the scene.
Rana Ijaz Ahmad, District Officer of Rescue 1122, reported that rescue efforts are currently underway but are being hindered by poor visibility. The minister has further ordered a formal inquiry to determine the cause of the derailment and to ensure accountability.
Initial reports suggested chaos and panic among passengers, with many seen attempting to rescue fellow travellers before emergency services could arrive.
PM expresses grief
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has expressed grief over the train accident. He directed rescue teams to start operations to help passengers as soon as possible.
He ordered provision of immediate medical assistance to the injured on priority basis.
He prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
