Murree: A devastating road accident on the Islamabad-Murree Expressway claimed at least 10 lives and left 13 others injured on Wednesday after a tourist van carrying members of the same family crashed and burst into flames near Khajut, according to Beyond Time News.
The tragic incident has shocked the country and raised fresh concerns about road safety on mountainous routes frequently used by tourists traveling to northern destinations.
Fatal Crash on Murree Expressway
According to local authorities, the passenger van was carrying 23 members of a family from Multan who were traveling to Murree for a recreational trip.
Officials said the vehicle met with an accident near Khajut on the Murree Expressway. Initial reports indicate that the van was moving at a high speed when it struck a roadside wall while navigating a turn.
The impact severely damaged the vehicle and triggered a fire in the engine compartment.
As flames spread rapidly, several passengers became trapped inside, resulting in a significant loss of life.
Locked Exit Prevented Escape
Authorities revealed that the van’s sliding door became jammed following the collision.
Compounding the tragedy, the vehicle overturned onto the side where the main exit door was located. This made it extremely difficult for passengers to escape after the fire erupted.
Emergency officials said many victims were unable to exit the vehicle despite efforts to flee the flames.
The accident highlights the importance of vehicle safety mechanisms and emergency escape systems, particularly for passenger transport vehicles operating on challenging routes.
Rescue Teams Launch Emergency Operation
Soon after the incident, rescue teams rushed to the scene and launched a large-scale emergency response operation.
Personnel from Rescue 1122, Motorway Police, local administration, and the Forest Department participated in rescue and relief activities.
Emergency responders worked to extinguish the fire, recover victims, and transport the injured to medical facilities.
Authorities shifted casualties to nearby hospitals and the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad for treatment.
Children Among the Victims
Officials confirmed that children were among those affected by the tragedy.
According to rescue authorities, the van carried several young family members who were traveling with relatives to Murree.
The loss of life has deeply saddened local communities and sparked an outpouring of sympathy across the country.
Authorities have not yet released the complete identities of all victims, pending notification of relatives and completion of official procedures.
Injured Passengers Under Treatment
Hospital officials reported that multiple injured passengers are receiving treatment.
According to medical authorities, several victims suffered serious injuries. Doctors continue to monitor their condition closely.
Officials said some of the injured remain in critical condition and are receiving specialized medical care.
Healthcare teams have been instructed to provide all necessary treatment and support to survivors.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched a formal investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident and subsequent fire.
Investigators will examine factors including vehicle condition, speed, road conditions, and possible mechanical failures.
Officials are also expected to review whether safety standards were properly followed and whether any preventable factors contributed to the tragedy.
The findings could help improve safety measures for passenger vehicles operating on mountainous highways.
Road Safety Concerns Resurface
The accident has renewed concerns regarding traffic safety on Pakistan’s hill roads, particularly during peak tourism seasons.
Murree remains one of Pakistan’s most visited tourist destinations. Thousands of families travel to the region every year, especially during holidays and summer vacations.
Road safety experts stress the importance of proper vehicle maintenance, safe driving speeds, and emergency preparedness when traveling through mountainous terrain.
Authorities have repeatedly urged drivers to exercise caution on steep roads and sharp bends, where accidents can occur quickly if vehicles are not operated safely.
Read more:Murree entry routes reopened for tourists after snowfall safety measures
Chief Minister Expresses Condolences
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in the accident.
She extended condolences to the bereaved families and directed authorities to ensure immediate medical treatment for all injured passengers.
Furthermore, she sought a detailed report on the incident and instructed relevant departments to provide all possible assistance to the affected families.
A Community in Mourning
The tragedy has left a family from Multan grieving the loss of loved ones during what was intended to be a joyful trip.
As rescue efforts conclude and investigations continue, authorities are focusing on supporting survivors and determining the circumstances that led to the devastating accident.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, vehicle maintenance, and emergency preparedness on Pakistan’s busy tourist routes.
FAQs
How many people died in the Murree Expressway accident?
At least 10 people lost their lives in the accident.
How many passengers were on the vehicle?
The tourist van was carrying 23 passengers from the same family.
Where did the accident occur?
The crash occurred near Khajut on the Islamabad-Murree Expressway.
What caused the fire?
Authorities said the collision triggered a fire in the vehicle’s engine compartment. Investigations are ongoing.
Where are the injured being treated?
Injured passengers were shifted to nearby hospitals and the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad.
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