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Tragic Train Derailment in Pakistan Claims Six Lives and Injures Over 40

A devastating train derailment in Punjab, Pakistan, has left six people dead and over 40 injured. The Rehman Baba Express was en route from Karachi to Peshawar when it derailed near Sher Shah Bridge. Rescue operations are underway, with authorities providing medical assistance to the injured. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for swift action to ensure the best care for victims. This incident raises further concerns about the safety of Pakistan's aging railway system, which has seen similar tragedies in the past.
 

Fatal Train Accident in Punjab


Lahore: A tragic incident occurred in Pakistan's Punjab province on Tuesday when a passenger train heading to Peshawar derailed, resulting in the deaths of at least six individuals and injuring around 40 others, according to police reports.


The derailment took place at approximately 5:15 AM while the train was en route from Karachi to Peshawar.


The Rehman Baba Express derailed close to the Sher Shah Bridge in Multan.


Babar Ali, a spokesperson for Pakistan Railways, mentioned that the train was carrying about 500 passengers.


According to the train driver’s account, he felt a sudden jolt as the train passed through the Sher Shah station, prompting him to apply the brakes.


Upon stopping, it was reported that 14 coaches had derailed.


The injured passengers were quickly transported to local hospitals for medical attention, while rescue teams initiated efforts to evacuate those trapped in the derailed coaches.


One passenger was reportedly stuck inside a coach, complicating rescue efforts.


Authorities confirmed that six fatalities occurred, with over 40 injuries reported, as all 14 coaches derailed near the bridge.


A relief train and medical assistance were dispatched from Multan to support the ongoing rescue operations.


Train services on both tracks were halted following the incident, causing significant disruptions.


Multan Commissioner Amir Karim Khan visited the scene to meet with affected passengers and their families, promising them necessary support.


He instructed officials to arrange temporary lodging, transportation, and meals for those stranded.


One passenger claimed that maintenance work had been performed on coach number nine near Rohri prior to the derailment.


However, this assertion has not been independently verified, and it remains uncertain if the repairs were connected to the derailment, as reported by Geo.


Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his condolences and urged officials to ensure that the injured receive top-notch medical care.


He called for expedited rescue efforts and emphasized the importance of timely medical treatment for the injured.


The exact cause of the derailment is still under investigation, with Pakistan Railways and relevant authorities expected to release more information as rescue operations continue.


Incidents involving Pakistan's aging rail infrastructure are not uncommon.


In August 2023, the Hazara Express derailment near Nawabshah in Sindh resulted in at least 30 fatalities and over 100 injuries, raising serious concerns regarding railway safety and maintenance.