55 railway accidents raise safety concerns

55 railway accidents raise safety concerns

Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi visited the Steel and Carriage Shops in Mughalpura on Saturday and directed officials to maintain quality standards in the production of railway components.

During his visit to the Mughalpura Steel Shop, the minister inspected the electric arc furnace and reviewed the spectro laboratory, which tests the quality of components manufactured at the facility.

The visit comes amid growing concerns over railway safety, as Pakistan Railways has reportedly experienced more than 55 accidents involving passenger and freight trains since January 1.

The incidents have reportedly caused several deaths and left dozens of people injured, while inflicting millions of rupees in damage to railway infrastructure. The repeated accidents have raised questions about track maintenance, equipment standards and the implementation of safety measures across the railway network.

Passengers have expressed concern over the frequency of train accidents, saying that many people continue to rely on railways because it remains an essential and affordable means of transport.

The recurring incidents have also drawn attention to the effectiveness of safety measures introduced under the directions of Hanif Abbasi. Despite instructions to improve railway operations and prevent accidents, further mishaps have continued to raise concerns about the department’s maintenance and monitoring arrangements.

According to railway sources, passenger and freight trains have been involved in more than 55 accidents of varying severity since the beginning of the year. The Yusufwala coal train has reportedly been involved in several incidents.

On August 27, 10 wagons of a freight train derailed near Khanpur. On the same day, the engine and two coaches of the Rawal Express also went off the tracks near Kala Gujran.

The repeated incidents have renewed calls for stronger safety inspections, improved track maintenance and effective implementation of preventive measures to protect passengers and railway workers.