ISLAMABAD: A serious derailment involving the Islamabad Express occurred on Friday evening close to Kala Shah Kaku, while the train was en route from Lahore to Rawalpindi.
Reports indicate that six of the train’s bogies were affected, resulting in injuries to at least 25 passengers, including men, women, and children. The accident took place near Nullah Dek, situated between Sheikhupura and Muridke.
Emergency response teams from 1122 and the railway police promptly arrived at the scene. In the initial moments, passengers themselves began rescue efforts due to the perceived delay in official assistance. A total of six rescue vehicles and 25 personnel were dispatched to aid those affected. The most critically injured passengers were transported promptly to nearby healthcare facilities for treatment.
In response to the disruption, train services between Lahore and Rawalpindi have been temporarily diverted through alternative routes, including Wazirabad, Sangla Hill, Hafizabad, and Shahdara. Meanwhile, the Green Line Express resumed operations from Sadhoki to help manage the increased passenger flow.
Rescue teams remained on-site throughout the night to assist passengers and evaluate the situation. The derailment has raised concerns over the state of Pakistan’s railway infrastructure and safety standards. Witnesses and passengers criticized the slow response of emergency services, with some injured individuals taking it upon themselves to initiate rescue actions.
Preliminary investigations at the site revealed broken track components, prompting questions about maintenance and inspection procedures.
Federal Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi expressed his condolences over the incident, instructing railway officials to visit the site and oversee the ongoing rescue operations. He has also called for a formal inquiry, with a detailed report expected within the next week.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed his sorrow regarding the tragedy, ordering rescue teams to focus on providing medical aid and accelerating relief efforts for the injured.
