Musharraf orders inquiry into Karachi train derailment

Islamabad, Dec 19: President Pervez Musharraf has ordered an immediate inquiry into the causes leading to the derailment of the Karachi Express and the heavy loss of life.

The President directed the Pakistan Railways to investigate into the matter and fix responsibility so that the culprits may be punished and measures taken to ensure such incidents do not recur. Musharraf also expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life in the accident, which took place five kilometres north of Mehrabpur, near Sukkur. He directed the concerned authorities to provide best possible medical treatment to those injured and to facilitate the passengers of the train.

At least 50 people were reportedly killed and many more were injured when several bogies of Lahore bound Karachi Express derailed near Mehrabpur railway station in Naushehro Feroz district.

Sources said that the express train was packed with holiday travellers and the incident took place around 2.30 a.m. on Wednesday.

The Karachi Express train was on its way from Lahore when 12 coaches came off the tracks near the town of Mehrabpur, about 400 km north of Karachi, officials said.

According to railway sources 1033 passengers were onboard the train when it departed from Karachi.

Train traffic was suspended after the mishap.

The authorities have declared emergency at all nearby hospitals after the incident and rushed doctors and paramedics to the medical facilities. (ANI)>