Pakistan: 25 dead, 80 injured as Hazara Express derails
In a tragic train accident, at least 25 people died and 80 others were injured in Pakistan after 10 coaches of the Hazara Express derailed near Sahara Railway Station on Sunday, Geo TV reported. The train departed from Karachi and was headed to Rawalpindi. The injured have been admitted to the People's Medical Hospital in Nawabshah. The reason behind the derailment isn't known yet.
Emergency protocol imposed in nearby hospitals
Rescue efforts underway
Rescue efforts are underway to evacuate passengers from the affected coaches. A relief train from Loco Shed Rohri has reportedly departed for the accident site. However, it was estimated to take around three hours to reach the site, Railways Divisional Superintendent Sukkur Mahmoodur Rahman said.
'Quite a big accident': Pakistan railway minister
Pakistan Railway Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique told reporters, "This is quite a big accident." "There can be two reasons: first, that it was a mechanical fault, or the fault was created — it might be a sabotage. We will investigate it," he added. "Authorities have been alerted... The railway secretary is present in Nawabshah," The Independent quoted Rafique as saying.
9 of 10 wrecked coaches cleared
The Pakistan Army and Rangers were carrying out rescue and relief operations along with police personnel and civilians. Benazirabad Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Younis Chandio said nine of the 10 wrecked coaches had been cleared, and the remaining coach will be removed using heavy machinery.
Allama Iqbal Express derailed on Saturday, no casualty
Pakistan's railway system is outdated, which causes frequent accidents and derailments, The Independent reported quoting local media. The accident comes a day after three coaches of the Sialkot-bound Allama Iqbal Express derailed near the Padidan Railway Station, narrowly averting a major disaster. Although the accident disrupted rail traffic for hours, no casualty was reported in the incident.
