Pakistan: At least 36 Killed, 50 Injured in Train Collision

At least 36 people died and over 50 were injured after two trains collided in Sindh in Pakistan in the early hours of Monday.

The collision occurred in the Ghotki District when a Millat Express train — headed from Karachi to Sargodha — derailed, and another train, the Sir Syed Express coming from Rawalpindi, hit the Millat Express, Samaa TV reported citing Pakistan Railways officials.

According to local police, around 13 to 14 train cars derailed, while six to eight were completely destroyed. Apart from the death of 36 people, Geo TV said that more than 50 others were injured and several passengers remained trapped under the rubble, a report in Business Standard said.

A rescue operation is underway for passengers trapped inside the trains. All sides of the tracks have been closed after the incident, the report stated.

In March this year, Lahore-bound Karachi Express had derailed in Sindh province.

Later, a probe launched under the federal government inspector of railways (FGIR) had blamed the "poor condition of the track" for the accident in which a woman was killed and 13 others sustained injuries.

Prime Minister Imran Khan said he was "shocked" by the accident and promised a full inquiry

"Shocked by the horrific train accident at Ghotki early this morning leaving 30 passengers dead. Have asked Railway Minister to reach site & ensure medical assistance to injured & support for families of the dead. Ordering comprehensive investigation into railway safety faultlines," the Prime Minister tweeted.

Shocked by the horrific train accident at Ghotki early this morning leaving 30 passengers dead. Have asked Railway Minister to reach site & ensure medical assistance to injured & support for families of the dead. Ordering comprehensive investigation into railway safety faultlines

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 7, 2021

ALSO READ: India Records 1lakh Fresh COVID Cases, Lowest In 61 Days