Accident: Eight of a family perish in DG Khan

DERA GHAZI KHAN: Eight members of a family were presumed dead on Saturday when a motorcycle rickshaw they were travelling in plunged into a canal. Another four members of the family were rescued while divers could not find eight people or their bodies till late in the night.

The family from Basti Shahily was travelling to Wadoor village. The rickshaw, which was reportedly over-speeding, tipped over Wadoor village and fell into the DG Khan Canal. The bridge does not have a protective fence.

Police and Rescue 1122 workers rescued Kosar Mai, Sakeena Mai, a child named Zeeshan and the rickshaw driver, Talib Hussain.

However, divers could not find eight passengers identified as Sajida Bibi, Rabia Bibi, Sadia Bibi, Haseena Mai, Zeenat Bibi, Yasir and one-year-old Bimillah. Police sources said there were little chances of finding them alive.

The rescue operation was suspended after sunset but rescuers have spread safety nets at three places and will continue monitoring with searchlights. They will resume the rescue operation Sunday morning.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 8^th, 2013.