25 hurt as Islamabad bound train derails near Kala Shah Kaku

At least 25 passengers were injured when six bogies of the Islamabad Express derailed near Kala Shah Kaku, between Sheikhupura and Muridke, on Friday. The train was en route from Lahore to Islamabad when the accident occurred near Nullah Dek. 

According to rescue sources, three of the bogies overturned due to the derailment, while six bogies in total left the track. 

Initial reports suggested chaos and panic among passengers, with many seen attempting to rescue fellow travellers before emergency services could arrive. The sources said six rescue vehicles were present at the accident site as the rescue operation got underway. They said the injured included children and women, and were all being shifted to the Muridke THQ and Shahdara Teaching Hospital. Rescue 1122 sources said the search operation was underway. 

Officials confirmed that more than 25 people sustained injuries, though no fatalities have been reported so far. Injured passengers were provided first aid on-site, while those critically hurt were shifted to nearby hospitals for further treatment.

Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi has taken notice of the Islamabad Express derailment near Kala Shah Kaku. He has directed the Railways CEO and divisional superintendent to immediately reach the accident site. Railway staff have also been instructed to expedite relief operations, and medical teams have been ordered to arrive at the scene without delay.