Topline
At least 36 people were killed and 50 others were injured after two trains collided in southern Pakistan on Monday morning, in what is the latest in the line of accidents that the country’s aging railway infrastructure has witnessed in the past few years.
This image from a video, shows people gathering at the site of a train collision in Ghotki, ... [+]
Key Facts
According to The Express Tribune, the accident took place near the Raiti railway station in southern Pakistan as an express passenger train on its way from Karachi collided with one coming from Rawalpindi.
Between 15 to 20 people still remain trapped inside the wreckage of the train from Karachi, The Dawn reported, citing the local police superintendent.
Authorities noted that a relief train has been dispatched from the nearest railway station to help the rescue efforts but warned that the death toll is expected to rise.
Around 1,100 passengers were on board the two trains, the Associated Press reported.
Crucial Quote
Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan tweeted: “Shocked by the horrific train accident at Ghotki early this morning leaving 30 passengers dead...Ordering comprehensive investigation into railway safety faultlines.”
Key Background
Train accidents have become a common occurrence in Pakistan as the country’s aging railway infrastructure remains poorly maintained. Earlier this year, one person was killed and 40 others were injured after a train derailed in southern Pakistan. In July 2020, 19 Sikh pilgrims were killed after a train collided with a passenger van in eastern Pakistan. Pakistan’s worst-ever train disaster took place in 1990 when a passenger trained slammed into a standing freight train in southern Pakistan killing 210 people.
Further Reading
At least 36 killed, scores injured as two passenger trains collide in Sindh's Ghotki district (Express Tribune)
At least 30 killed, 50 injured as passenger trains collide in Sindh's Ghotki district (Dawn)
