Gujranwala: At least twelve have died and several others injured, after four bogies of a train fell in a canal, when railway-bridge collapsed near Gujranwala. Atleast 80 people have been rescued and injured people have been shifted to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Gujranwala, said government officials.
The special train heading to Kharian from Pano Aqil was carrying army personnel; they were traveling for a military exercise. A train from Lahore has been sent to the spot carrying technical and medical staff, while rescue teams and two helicopters have started relief operations.
Lt Gen Asim Bajwa, Director General, Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) tweeted:
4 bogies of special train carrying mil troops to Kharian fell over bridge near Jamke Chattha in Canal. Rescue underway.Casualties expected
— AsimBajwaISPR (@AsimBajwaISPR) July 2, 2015
Update:Initial investigation,Railway Bridge collapsed.shaheed confirmed 12 including Comd of unit,Lt.col Amir.8 bodies found.Rescue contnues
— AsimBajwaISPR (@AsimBajwaISPR) July 2, 2015
More than 80 passengers have been rescued by the divers of Pakistan Army and Rescue 1122. According to details, four bogies of the train fell into the canal after the railway track bridge collapsed near Jamke Chattha in canal in Gujranawala. Senior General Manager of Pakistan Railways, Javed Anwar said the engine driver and fireman were also rescued by the divers of Pakistan Army.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has expressed concerns on the train accident in Gujranwala. He directed to mobilize all resources, to rescue the injured and restoration of the track. The Prime Minister also directed to provide medical aid to the injured and arrange their return to their destination points.
Railway minister Khawaja Saad Rafique directed to constitute investigative committee, to probe into the sad incident. Railway spokesman said more casualties were feared, as many people were stuck in under water bogies. The spokesman said that hand of terrorism could not be ruled out in this accident, as Pakistan Express was passed through the same bridge.
