Tragic Wedding Day: 15 Lives Lost in Punjab Canal Accident

A devastating accident in Punjab, Pakistan, has led to the loss of 15 lives, including women and children, when a rickshaw carrying wedding guests fell into a canal. The incident occurred due to overspeeding, prompting a rescue operation that saved several individuals. Authorities have expressed their condolences to the grieving families. This tragic event highlights the dangers associated with road safety during celebrations. Read on for more details about this heartbreaking incident.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 12, 2026, 15:47 IST

Devastating Incident in Punjab

Lahore: A tragic accident in Punjab, Pakistan, has resulted in the deaths of at least 15 individuals, including women and children, after a three-wheeler plunged into a canal, reportedly due to excessive speed, as confirmed by local authorities on Wednesday.

The rickshaw was transporting 26 guests to a wedding when it fell into the canal on Tuesday in Kot Addu, located in the Muzaffargarh district, approximately 350 kilometers from Lahore.

According to a statement from Punjab Emergency Rescue 1122, three rickshaws were part of the wedding convoy when one lost control and fell into the Muzaffargarh Canal due to overspeeding.

A rescue operation commenced after three individuals managed to swim to safety and notify Rescue 1122. Local residents, along with rescue teams, successfully saved eight people on Tuesday and transported them to a nearby hospital.

By the end of Tuesday, authorities had retrieved 12 bodies from the canal, as reported by police.

On Wednesday, three additional bodies were recovered, raising the total death toll to 15. The bodies were found between 5 to 20 kilometers from the accident site.

The canal is reported to be between 12 to 15 feet deep and 100 to 120 feet wide, with a water flow ranging from 2,500 to 4,000 cusecs.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has expressed her condolences and sorrow to the families affected by this tragic event.