Urging a probe into the train inferno that killed at least 74 and injured over 43
RAWALPINDI: Train accidents are common in Pakistan where the railways have seen a lack of investment as well as mismanagement and corruption. The Tezgam accident was horrifying. The passengers on the train were travelling from Karachi to Rawalpindi. When the train was crossing Liaquatpur Tehsil the train caught the fire. It was reported that two gas stoves exploded, setting the train on fire. Many of the passengers jumped from the window when they saw the fire in a train. The train stopped after 20 minutes and three carriages were destroyed during the time.
At least 74 people have been killed, and at least 43 injured. Troops from the Pakistani Army assisted in the rescue operation. The most severely injured were taken to hospitals in Bahawalpur and Multan. Those with less severe wounds were treated at hospitals in Liaquatpur and Rahim Yar Khan. Another train was dispatched to rescue stranded passengers and take them to Rawalpindi.
According to the Railway Minister, its was due to explosion of gas cylinders but some victims are telling that it was due to short circuit which causes the fire. The prime minister has ordered an investigation into the accident. The use of gas stoves or any hazardous equipment on trains in Pakistan is illegal but still many people use them without care. This accident took place due to negligence by both the public and the government. The walkthrough gate was not working on the station when passengers were going for the journey. There was no security to check the luggage of the passengers.
I urge the government to maintain security at the railway stations. There should be a strict ban on carrying flammable material inside trains.
Nauman Munawar
Published in The Express Tribune, November 3rd, 2019.
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