GUJRANWALA: As many as 12 deaths were confirmed as engine compartment and four bogies of a train which carrying 300 passengers fell into a canal in Punjab province’s Gujranwala district on Thursday.
Five people died and so far 20 to 25 passengers have been rescued from the canal as a rescue operation by Pakistan Army divers is underway.
Several passengers are said to be injured that were travelling on the train which was on its way to Kharian from Pano Aqil when the bridge collapsed derailing four bogies.
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
A relief train from Lahore has been dispatched on the orders of Divisional Superintendent Pakistan Railways, which is carrying medical, mechanical as well as technical staff. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has expressed grief over the accident and directed the Punjab government and relief services to provide all resources.
According to Inter Services Public relations (ISPR), Constable Aslam, Lans Naik Zafar, Colonal Rashid, Captain Adil, lieutenant Kashif, lieutenant Colonel Amir Jadoon, his two sons and wife are among the martyred.
Regional Police Officer Gujranwala Faisal Shahid said after initial investigation that there is no evidence of terrorism act in Train incident.
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
RPO Gujranwala talking to media said that they reached the site as soon as they head about the incident in which 12 people embraced martyrdom.
He said the water flow in canal was too strong so they he has ordered to stop the flow of water.
Faisal Shahid told that heavy machinery is being used in rescue operation.
Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif has showed his concerns over Gujranwala Train incident on Thursday.
Nawaz Sharif issued the instructions to relative departments to mobilise all resources to rescue passengers of Gujranwala train incident.
He also gave instructions to provide best medical facilities to injured passengers.
