MULTAN — The rescue operation following the derailment of the Rahman Baba Express near Sher Shah Bridge in Multan has been completed, with six fatalities confirmed and at least 30 people injured.
The train, travelling from Karachi to Peshawar, derailed near Sher Shah Bridge, with all 15 coaches reportedly coming off the tracks. Initial reports indicated that several coaches overturned.
Rescue officials said another body was recovered from a damaged coach, raising the death toll to six. All recovered bodies and injured passengers were shifted to Nishtar Hospital, where an emergency was declared.
Authorities said the search was continuing for a missing 18-month-old girl despite the completion of the main rescue operation.
A passenger reported that the accident occurred at around 5:15 am and claimed that nuts and bolts on coach number nine had been repaired near Rohri. However, officials have not confirmed the cause of the derailment.
The Divisional Superintendent of Railways said it was too early to determine the cause. An investigative committee is collecting evidence, while authorities were working to restore the affected down track within three to four hours.
An alternative coach was also arranged to transport passengers from the affected train to the railway station.
Prime Minister Takes Notice
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took notice of the incident and expressed concern over the injuries sustained by passengers. He directed the relevant authorities to accelerate relief efforts and ensure the provision of all possible medical assistance.
Railways Minister Orders Medical Assistance
Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi also took notice of the accident and instructed officials to provide the best possible medical facilities to injured passengers.
He expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and said compensation would be provided to deceased and injured passengers under the railway insurance policy.