At least 25 passengers lost their lives and one was injured on Sunday when a coaster traveling from Kahuta to Rawalpindi plunged into a ditch, according to a rescue official.
“The accident occurred due to the coaster’s failed brakes,” said Usman Gujjar, an official from Rescue 1122 Punjab.
The bodies have been transported to Tehsil Headquarters Hospital in Kahuta, with 26 passengers reported to have been on board. The victims include 20 men, four women, and one child.
The tragic incident took place on the Girari Bridge along Kahuta’s Azad Pattan Road, Gujjar added. The interior ministry later stated that 29 people had died in the crash.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed his “heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the families of the deceased.”
Condolences and Grief Over the Tragedy
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of life near Azad Pattan, as reported by Radio Pakistan. In his statement, he offered prayers for the departed souls and their grieving families, while also directing authorities to provide immediate medical assistance to the injured.
President Asif Ali Zardari also conveyed his deep grief over the loss of lives in the accident, extending his sympathies to the bereaved families in their time of sorrow. He emphasized the urgency of speeding up relief efforts.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed her sadness over the tragedy on X, praying for the deceased and their loved ones. National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq similarly expressed regret and sorrow over the accident, offering condolences and urging authorities to ensure prompt medical care for the injured.
