Just 30 Minutes After Departure, Lives Went Off Track – Train Derails Near Lahore, 30 Injured

International News: A major train accident occurred near Lahore, Pakistan, on Friday evening, when several coaches of the Islamabad Express went off the tracks. The train was traveling from Lahore to Rawalpindi. According to officials, around 30 passengers were injured, and rescue operations are still ongoing.

Accident Happened Near Kala Shah Kaku

The incident took place near Kala Shah Kaku, a town about 50 kilometers from Lahore, in the Sheikhupura district. The train had departed from Lahore Railway Station just 30 minutes before the accident occurred. It was heading toward Rawalpindi when it suddenly derailed.

Ten Coaches Derailed

According to Pakistan Railways, at least ten coaches of the train derailed. The sudden derailment caused panic among passengers. Some people were thrown from their seats, while others remained trapped inside the overturned coaches. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud noise followed by chaos inside the train.

Injured Sent to Hospitals

Soon after the incident, rescue teams and emergency services reached the spot. The injured passengers were taken to nearby hospitals in Sheikhupura and Lahore. Officials confirmed that three people are in serious condition, while others suffered minor injuries like cuts, bruises, and fractures.

Despite the serious nature of the accident, no deaths have been reported so far, which comes as a relief to families and authorities.

Passengers Still Trapped Inside Coaches

As of Saturday morning, some passengers were still believed to be trapped inside the damaged coaches. Rescue workers are using special equipment to carefully cut open the coaches without causing further harm. Families of passengers are anxiously waiting for updates near the accident site and in hospitals.

Rail Minister Orders High-Level Inquiry

Pakistan’s Minister for Railways, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, took immediate notice of the accident. He ordered senior railway officers, including the CEO and divisional superintendent, to visit the site and supervise the situation. The minister has also called for a detailed investigation, and a report must be submitted within seven days.

He stated that anyone found guilty of negligence will face strict action. The minister also promised to improve railway safety in the future to avoid such incidents.

Train Services on Route Affected

Due to the derailment, train services on the Lahore–Rawalpindi route were temporarily suspended. Other scheduled trains have been delayed, and authorities are working to clear the tracks and restore normal operations.

Concerns Over Railway Safety

This accident has again raised serious concerns about the safety and condition of Pakistan’s railway system. Many experts have pointed out that old tracks, poor maintenance, and outdated trains are major reasons behind such accidents.

People across the country are now urging the government to invest in modern railway infrastructure, better safety equipment, and proper training for staff.

As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on saving lives and finding out exactly what caused the derailment. More updates are expected in the coming days.