Railways logs over 55 accidents this year

Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi inspected production facilities at the Steel and Carriage Shops in Mughalpura on Saturday, ordering officials to uphold quality standards in railway component manufacturing. Since January 1, Pakistan Railways has recorded over 55 accidents involving both passenger and freight trains, prompting concerns over safety, maintenance standards, and the effectiveness of recently announced preventive measures.

These accidents have resulted in fatalities, dozens of injuries, and millions in damages to railway infrastructure. The repeated incidents have instilled fear in passengers, with some deeming train travel a necessary but dangerous mode of transport. Despite strict directives from the minister, accidents continue to occur, while railway officials provide reassuring assessments of the situation.

The department's safety and maintenance measures are under scrutiny due to the recurring incidents, with passenger and freight trains involved in more than 55 accidents since the start of the year. Notable accidents include the derailling of 10 wagons near Khanpur on August 27, the derailment of the engine and two coaches of the Rawal Express near Kala Gujran on the same day, and the collision between the Yusufwala coal train and other trains near Khairpur on September 27.

These incidents have affected key railway divisions, including Sukkur, Karachi, and Multan, with acts of sabotage also impacting operations, such as the targeted attack on a shuttle train in Quetta on May 24, which damaged three coaches.