LOC19:35
16:35 GMT
ISLAMABAD, July 3 (KUNA) -- At least 20 people were killed on Friday when a train rammed into a coaster carrying pilgrims of Sikh minority in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province.
Pakistan Railways spokesperson confirming the incident said that the accident occurred as the Lahore-bound train, travelling from Karachi, crashed into a coaster at an unmanned level crossing between Farooqabad and Bahalekay area.
Many of the deceased belonged to a single family who were on their way home from a pilgrim site. At least 10 injured people were shifted to the nearest medical facilities. No casualties were reported among the train passengers.
In 2019, over 100 railway-related incidents were reported across Pakistan. In November last year, over 70 people died when a Karachi-Rawalpindi train caught fire during its journey.
President of Pakistan, Dr. Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed deep sorrow and grief over the loss of lives in the train accident.
In their separate messages conveyed their heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed in the tragic incident. They also directed for provision of best medical treatment to the injured. Minister for Railways, Sheikh Rashid has ordered authorities to take immediate action against those responsible for the accident. (end)
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