Mardan: At least 18 people lost their lives and several others sustained injuries in a tragic road accident on the Swat Expressway near Ismaila in Rustam tehsil of Mardan district on Monday, officials confirmed.
According to Beyond Time News, the deadly crash occurred near the Saeedabad Khoro Koto Bridge when a passenger coach collided with another bus that was already parked on the roadside due to a technical fault.
How the Accident Happened
Motorway Police stated that the stationary bus had developed a generator fault and stopped along the roadside. Shortly afterward, a speeding coach approaching from behind crashed into the parked vehicle, triggering a devastating impact.
As a result, multiple passengers suffered fatal injuries on the spot, while others sustained serious wounds.
Victims From Northern Districts
Officials said that most of the deceased and injured passengers belonged to Upper Dir and Bajaur districts. However, authorities have not yet completed the identification process of all victims.
Meanwhile, rescue teams quickly reached the scene and shifted the bodies and injured passengers to a hospital in Mardan for medical treatment and further procedures.
Rescue and Emergency Response
Rescue operations continued for several hours as emergency teams cleared the wreckage and transported survivors. In addition, police secured the area and began collecting evidence to determine the exact cause of the collision.
Authorities confirmed that investigations are underway to establish whether speeding or driver negligence contributed to the crash.
Chief Minister Expresses Grief
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of precious lives in the accident. He extended condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the departed souls.
Furthermore, he directed officials to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured and called for a detailed report on the incident.
Rising Road Safety Concerns
Road accidents continue to occur frequently on Pakistan’s highways and motorways. Experts link many of these incidents to overspeeding, driver fatigue, poor vehicle maintenance, and inadequate road safety practices.
Earlier this month, another accident in Swat left multiple passengers dead when a van fell into a ravine, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety in mountainous regions.
Read more:11 Killed, Seven Injured in Swat Expressway Collision Near Peshawar
Key Highlights
- 18 passengers killed in Swat Expressway crash
- Coach hit parked bus near Mardan district
- Victims mostly from Upper Dir and Bajaur
- Rescue teams shifted injured to hospital
- CM KP expressed grief and ordered report
FAQs
1. Where did the accident happen?
The crash occurred on the Swat Expressway near Ismaila in Mardan district.
2. How many people died in the accident?
At least 18 people were killed, while several others were injured.
3. What caused the crash?
A speeding passenger coach collided with a parked bus that had a mechanical fault.
4. Where were the victims from?
Most victims belonged to Upper Dir and Bajaur districts.
5. What action has been taken?
Rescue operations were carried out, and authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
