Journalist's widow files Rs59.9m suit against NHA, govt over fatal road crash
Khalid Iqbal died after trailer hit his motorcycle while he was avoiding potholes on Karachi’s National Highway: Petitioner alleges NHA’s failure to repair the road caused fatal crash and family’s financial hardship
The widow of a senior journalist, Khalid Iqbal, has filed a damages lawsuit of Rs 59.9 million against the federal government and the National Highway Authority (NHA) following his death in a traffic accident on the National Highway.
According to the petitioner’s lawyer, Usman Farooq Advocate, the fatal accident occurred in October 2024 while the journalist was returning home from his office.
The incident took place when Iqbal tried to avoid potholes on the highway, but his motorcycle was struck by a trailer.
The widow's lawyer argued that the accident resulted from the NHA’s negligence and its failure to repair and maintain the road.
The petitioner's lawyer maintained that ensuring the safety and upkeep of highways is the statutory responsibility of the NHA.
Advocate Usman Farooq further stated that the late Khalid Iqbal was the sole breadwinner of his family, and since his death, his dependents have been facing severe financial distress.
The petitioner has therefore demanded compensation of Rs 59.9 million under the Fatal Accidents Act.
Reporter: Jawad Asif