Mandi Bahauddin road accidents kill 7, affect 650 in three weeks

MANDI BAHAUDDIN: Seven people were killed and 650 others were affected by road accidents in Mandi Bahauddin district between October 1 and 23, 2026, according to Rescue 1122 data, highlighting concerns over reckless driving, speeding and violations of traffic rules.

The victims included elderly people, young men and a father who died alongside his two-year-old daughter. The incidents have renewed calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and improved road safety measures across the district.

According to the Rescue 1122 report, the emergency service received 545 calls related to road traffic accidents during the 23-day period. Of these incidents, 435 were attributed to negligence, while 55 involved speeding. Incorrect turns accounted for 17 accidents, tyre bursts for nine, U-turns for five and one-wheeling for one. Another 20 incidents were linked to other causes.

Of the 650 people affected, 391 received first aid at the scene, while 248 injured individuals were transported to hospitals. Four people were recorded as having been shifted before Rescue 1122 teams arrived.

Several fatal crashes were reported at different locations across the district.

A 63-year-old man, identified as Zafar, was killed when two motorcycles collided on Sufi City Road near the Manzoorabad railway crossing. In a separate incident at Chandni Chowk in Malkwal, a car and motorcycle collided, killing 60-year-old Azhar and 70-year-old Shamim.

Another fatal accident occurred on Qadirabad Barrage Road, where a truck collided with a motorcycle, killing 38-year-old Mubashir and his two-year-old daughter, Haram.

In Bhoa Ahsan, 25-year-old Babar died after his motorcycle struck a tree.

The reported incidents have prompted residents to demand stronger traffic monitoring, particularly on busy roads and accident-prone stretches. They have urged authorities to take action against speeding, dangerous motorcycle riding, one-wheeling and other violations in accordance with the law.

Residents have also called for a more visible presence of traffic personnel at major intersections, increased patrolling by police and public awareness campaigns to encourage responsible driving.

An attempt was made to contact the deputy superintendent of police (DSP) for traffic for comments on accident prevention and enforcement measures. However, he was unavailable at his office, and his comments could not be obtained.

The figures for October 1–23 underscore the need for practical measures to improve road safety in Mandi Bahauddin. Residents have urged the relevant authorities to strengthen enforcement, monitor high-risk locations and take effective steps to prevent further loss of life.