ZHOB: At least 40 people, including women and children, lost their lives and eight others were injured after a passenger bus plunged into a deep ravine in the Danasar area of Zhob, Balochistan, officials confirmed.
According to police, the bus reportedly lost its brakes before veering off the road and falling into the ravine. The injured passengers were shifted to the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital, where they are receiving treatment.
Balochistan Chief Minister’s Adviser on Media, Shahid Rind, said the crash occurred near the Balochistan–Khyber Pakhtunkhwa border. Rescue teams from both provinces, including personnel from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the Health Department, the Frontier Corps, and other emergency agencies, were deployed to the site.
Initial findings suggest the bus was overcrowded, as passengers from another vehicle that had broken down earlier were also travelling on it. Authorities suspect brake failure may have caused the accident, though the exact reason will be determined after a formal investigation.
The provincial government has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the tragedy, directing the transport secretary to examine all aspects of the incident and submit a detailed report. Officials said any negligence found during the investigation would be dealt with strictly.
Authorities are continuing efforts to identify the victims and ensure proper medical care for those injured. The Balochistan government expressed condolences to the bereaved families and pledged full support during the relief efforts.
Meanwhile, Asif Ali Zardari expressed profound sorrow over the loss of lives and directed the relevant authorities to provide the best possible medical treatment to the injured. He also extended condolences to the affected families, saying the nation stands with them in this difficult time.
