Two coaches of the 45-Up Pakistan Express, traveling from Karachi to Rawalpindi, derailed early Saturday morning in Punjab’s Bahawalpur district, leading to the temporary suspension of both up and down railway operations, as reported by quoting railway sources.
The incident occurred at 6:05 AM near Mubarakpur Station, where the AC Standard coach, fourth from the back, completely came off the track.
The attached dining car was also affected in the mishap. Fortunately, there were no injuries or casualties reported.
A rescue train was immediately sent from Sama Satta, and emergency teams are actively working to clear the area and restore train services.
Railway officials are on the scene, emphasizing passenger safety and the quick resumption of operations.
In a related move, following the collapse of the bridge at Khanewal Railway Station, Pakistan Railways’ CEO has ordered a detailed report on all railway bridges across the country.
Divisional superintendents have been instructed to submit comprehensive data from their areas, which will be used to launch a national bridge upgrade program.
Meanwhile, to accommodate the increased travel during Eidul Azha, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed Pakistan Railways to operate five special Eid trains.
Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi has approved the schedule for these services, which will run between key cities:
- The first special train leaves Karachi for Lahore on June 2 at 1:00 PM.
- The second departs Quetta for Peshawar on June 3 at 10:00 AM.
- A third train will go from Lahore to Karachi the same day at 5:00 PM.
- Later that evening, another will head from Karachi to Rawalpindi at 8:00 PM.
- The fifth and final special train will depart from Karachi Cantt on June 4 at 5:30 PM.