At least 25 people lost their lives and one was injured when a coaster en route from Kahuta to Rawalpindi plunged into a ditch on Sunday, according to Rescue 1122 Punjab. The tragic accident, which occurred on Girari Bridge along Azad Pattan Road, was reportedly due to brake failure, said Rescue 1122 official Usman Gujjar.
The coaster was carrying 26 passengers, including 20 men, four women, and one child. The victims’ bodies are being transferred to Tehsil Headquarters Hospital in Kahuta, as rescue teams continue their efforts on the scene.
While the interior ministry later reported that the death toll had risen to 29, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed his deep condolences to the families affected by the disaster.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif also conveyed his profound sorrow over the loss of lives. In a statement, the Prime Minister extended prayers for the deceased and their families and instructed authorities to provide immediate medical attention to the injured.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed similar grief, emphasizing the importance of expediting relief efforts. “My thoughts are with the bereaved families during this tragic time,” he said in a message shared by his party, the PPP, on X (formerly Twitter).
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz shared her condolences as well, expressing her sadness over the incident. “May Allah grant peace to the departed souls and patience to their families,” she wrote on X.
National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also voiced his sorrow, mourning the loss of over 22 passengers. He urged authorities to ensure swift medical care for the injured and offered his heartfelt sympathies to the families impacted by this tragedy.
The devastating accident has prompted an outpouring of grief across the nation as officials and citizens alike mourn the lives lost in this catastrophic event.
