Train derailment kills 5, injures 30 in Pakistan

A passenger train derailed in Pakistan’s Punjab province on Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals and injuries to 30 others, according to police reports.

The incident took place around 5:15 am when the train was en route from Karachi to Peshawar, as stated by police information.

The Rehman Baba Express derailed near Sher Shah Bridge in Multan, prompting immediate rescue efforts at the scene.

The injured were transported to Nishtar Hospital in Multan for medical treatment, while rescue teams continued their operations at the accident site, as reported by police and rescue officials.

Rescue officials indicated that 13 train coaches had been cleared, with work still ongoing in one remaining coach.

A passenger claimed workers had repaired the nuts and bolts of coach number nine near Rohri prior to the accident, though this claim has not been independently verified and its connection to the derailment remains unclear.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed concern over the injured passengers and instructed authorities to expedite rescue efforts and ensure prompt medical care.

The cause of the derailment has not yet been officially determined, with Pakistan Railways and relevant authorities expected to release further details as rescue operations continue.

Accidents on Pakistan’s aging rail system are frequent, with a notable incident occurring in August 2023 when the Hazara Express derailed near Nawabshah in Sindh, killing at least 30 people and injuring over 100.