Train derails near Kala Shah Kaku, 30 injured

LAHORE: An Islamabad-bound train derailed near Kala Shah Kaku, resulting in injuries to 30 passengers, as rescuers and the Pakistan Railways high-ups rushed the scene to deal with the accident.

Five coaches of the Islamabad Express derailed in the incident that took place along Nullah Dek between Kala Shah Kaku and Muridke.

As a result, the railway track has been closed for all trains, thus suspending service between Lahore and Rawalpindi. It will naturally also affect other trains running between the northern and southern parts of Pakistan.

However, the Pakistan Railways spokesperson says alternative routes have been suggested for other trains so that the passengers could reach their destinations albeit with a delay.

Also, none of the passengers was seriously injured, he said, adding that the injured received first aid on the spot.

Meanwhile, Nullah Dek is a seasonal stream that originates in Gujrat and joins Chenab River before passing through Sialkot district.

Kala Shah Kaku and Muridke are two town located in the Sheikhupura district.

RESCUE AND INVESTIGATION

The train derailment happened on the Main Line that connects Rawalpindi and then Peshawar with southern parts of the country.

Although the officials reached the spot, they faced difficulties in rescue work due to darkness. Some reports suggest that there was a delay in their arrival because of the location.

Therefore, the passengers started rescue work and shifting the injured on their own.

However, the Pakistan Railways spokesperson said they had received information about the train derailment at 7:32pm and the officials moved towards the scene at once.

It is worth noting that railway track, including the Main Line connecting Karachi and Peshawar, passes through desolate areas and thus not accessible by roads.

On the other hand, Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi took notice of the incident and ordered an inquiry, directing the authorities to submit a report within seven days.

Talking about the issue, Abbasi said he had ordered the railway officials to reach the scene immediately. and the probe would reveal the reason behind the train accident.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed his anguish over the incident and ordered to provide treatment to the injured at the earliest.

It’s a developing story. Details to follow