Railway safety
The Hazara Express derailment near the Sarhari Railway Station in Nawabshah, Sindh, is a damning indictment of negligence and mismanagement. The devastating incident claimed the lives of at least 30 people and left scores of others injured. Our hearts go out to the families who lost their loved ones and those who are now fighting for their lives in hospitals. This accident is yet another grim reminder of the longstanding issues plaguing Pakistan’s antiquated railway system, which demands immediate attention and comprehensive reform.
Recurring train accidents in Pakistan have become far too common, and they underscore a glaring lack of investment, maintenance and safety measures within the railway infrastructure. A thorough investigation into the cause of the derailment is essential, as it will shed light on potential mechanical faults or, even more worrisome, the possibility of sabotage. The root cause must be identified to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The responsibility lies not only with the federal government but also with the provincial administrations. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah’s swift response to the incident, directing relief and rescue efforts, is commendable. However, it should be followed by long-term planning and actions to overhaul the railway system’s safety and efficiency. Such catastrophic events reveal the vulnerabilities and fragility of the railway network, posing grave risks to the millions of passengers relying on it. The current state of Pakistan’s railway system is unsustainable and a matter of national concern.
One crucial aspect that needs immediate attention is the modernisation of the railways. Outdated infrastructure and lack of advanced signaling systems make the railways susceptible to accidents. Investments in technology and equipment are necessary to ensure smooth and safe operation of trains. Additionally, a dedicated safety committee must be formed to ensure adequate implementation of comprehensive safety protocols and regular maintenance checks.
Published in The Express Tribune, August 8th, 2023.
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