Over 30 injured as Islamabad express derails near Kala Shah Kaku

Over 30 passengers were injured when the Islamabad Express derailed near Kala Shah Kaku late Friday night.

The train was en route from Lahore to Rawalpindi when seven of its bogies went off the tracks.

Initial reports suggest that the train’s driver may have been at fault for allegedly exceeding the prescribed speed limits.

Additionally, technical issues related to track alignment had reportedly been flagged prior to the train’s departure but were not addressed, according to media reports.

Railway officials said a total of nine coaches were affected in the accident though the locomotive was undamaged.

The Divisional Superintendent (DS) Railways said that approximately 800 metres of track had been damaged at the site of the accident. Restoration work is currently under way with the assistance of heavy machinery, and officials estimate it could take another five hours to lay a temporary track and resume operations.

A high-level committee has been constituted to investigate the cause of the accident. Early indications point to a possible crack in the track as a contributing factor.

Federal Minister for Railways took immediate notice of the incident, instructing the CEO of Pakistan Railways and DS Railways to reach the scene without delay. He also directed that rescue efforts be expedited and medical teams dispatched immediately. A full inquiry report has been ordered within seven days.