30 Injured as Passenger Train Derails Near Lahore
At least 30 passengers were injured on Friday evening when the Islamabad Express derailed near the Kala Shah Kaku area, around 50 km from Lahore. The accident led to the overturning of multiple coaches, causing panic among passengers and disruption to train services.
Train Was Headed to Rawalpindi
The train had departed from Lahore and was en route to Rawalpindi when around 10 coaches came off the tracks. Witnesses reported a loud noise followed by violent shaking before the coaches derailed. Some of the compartments tipped over, trapping several passengers inside.
Rescue Operations in Full Swing
Emergency responders, including rescue teams and medical staff, arrived promptly at the scene. Injured passengers were rushed to local hospitals, with at least three in critical condition. Teams continued efforts into the night to safely extract those stuck in the wreckage.
Rail Ministry Orders Inquiry
Pakistan’s Railways Minister has directed senior officials to investigate the cause of the derailment and submit a report within a week. Officials on-site have been instructed to assess damage and expedite repair efforts. The Minister warned that strict action would follow if negligence is found.
Longstanding Safety Concerns Resurface
The accident has once again brought attention to Pakistan’s aging railway infrastructure and recurring maintenance lapses. Rail experts have repeatedly flagged outdated tracks and equipment as major risks in the country’s transportation system.
Train Services Disrupted
Rail traffic on the Lahore–Rawalpindi line has been temporarily suspended. Authorities are arranging alternate transport for affected passengers and working to clear the damaged coaches from the tracks to resume normal services soon.
