Train splits into two near Khanewal

Panic among Karakoram passengers but no loss of life

KHANEWAL:

The Karachi-bound Karakoram Express narrowly avoided a major disaster on Thursday after it split into two parts near Khanewal Junction, triggering panic among passengers but causing no casualties.

The incident occurred as the train was entering the loop line at Khanewal Junction, when the coupling connecting its coaches suddenly broke, separating the moving train into two sections.

The unexpected malfunction led to scenes of fear and confusion among passengers on board.

Despite the alarming situation, no loss of life or injuries were reported, according to initial information.

However, the accident disrupted rail operations on both up and down tracks, forcing authorities to suspend train movement immediately. Several trains were halted at different stations as railway officials worked to restore normal operations and assess the situation.

The incident occurred two after twenty-six passengers were injured, including one critically, when seven coaches of the train derailed near Adam Wahan Railway Station near Punjab's Lodhran on Tuesday night.

A Pakistan Railways spokesperson on Tuesday did not reveal the cause of the derailment of Tezgam, saying that the reasons would be ascertained after an inquiry that has been ordered by railway officials.

However, some eyewitnesses claimed that the derailment was caused when the couplers between the bogies broke, dividing the train into two parts. Seven bogies were left attached to the engine, out of which five were derailed.