In a tragic incident, a derailment occurred involving the Havelian-bound Hazara Express near Sahara Railway Station, situated 275 kilometers away from Karachi, Pakistan. The incident resulted in significant casualties and injuries, though the exact numbers are yet to be confirmed.
Reports indicate that as many as 10 carriages of the Hazara Express derailed during its journey from Karachi to Havelian. Law enforcement agencies, including police personnel, were swiftly deployed to the scene to assist in rescue operations.
Benazirabad Deputy Inspector General of Police, Younis Chandio, reported that the majority of the derailed carriages have been cleared, allowing for the recovery of both injured and deceased passengers. However, the removal of one carriage remains pending due to the need for heavy machinery.
The cause of the derailment is currently under investigation, with authorities considering factors such as mechanical failure and potential deliberate actions. Federal Minister for Railways and Aviation, Khawaja Saad Rafique, emphasized that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted once immediate relief efforts are completed.
As a result of the incident, train operations to and from interior districts of Sindh have been temporarily suspended. Railway authorities anticipate that restoration efforts may take up to 18 hours to complete, leading to disruptions in daily commuting for numerous individuals.
The Pakistan Army and Rangers have also joined the rescue operations, with additional troops and army aviation helicopters dispatched to the site to aid in relief efforts. Trained personnel from the paramilitary force, Sindh Rangers, are actively participating in immediate rescue tasks.
The Hazara Express derailment follows a recent incident involving the Allama Iqbal Express, which derailed without causing injuries. Pakistan’s rail system has experienced a series of accidents in recent years, prompting calls for enhanced safety measures and modernization of the railway network.
The nation’s attention is focused on the ongoing rescue operations and the well-being of those affected by the tragic incident. As investigations continue, efforts to improve and upgrade Pakistan’s rail infrastructure are expected to gain renewed attention to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
