The bus accident in northern Pakistan resulted in 20 deaths and 30 injuries after the driver lost control of the vehicle. The bus was en route to the popular tourist destination of Hunza on the Karakoram Highway in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Diamer district when the tragedy occurred. The injured passengers were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed their condolences and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured individuals. Road accidents are unfortunately common in Pakistan due to motorists disregarding traffic rules and safety standards, especially in rugged areas.
The accident took place early in the morning, at around 5:30 a.m., as the bus plunged into a rocky ravine near a riverbank. Local media images depicted the twisted wreckage of the orange bus at the bottom of the ravine, highlighting the severity of the incident. The Karakoram Highway connects Pakistan with China and is known for its treacherous terrain, making accidents like this a constant risk for travelers. Hunza, the destination of the ill-fated bus, is a popular spot for tourists, particularly during the warmer months.
The tragedy prompted swift responses from government officials, with spokesperson Faizaullah Faraq providing updates on the casualty count and the status of the injured passengers. The injured individuals were promptly assisted at the Chilas headquarters hospital, receiving the necessary medical attention. The authorities are investigating the cause of the accident to determine if negligence or other factors played a role in the driver losing control of the bus. Efforts are expected to be made to prevent similar accidents in the future by enforcing stricter safety measures on the road.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed their sorrow over the accident and offered their prayers for the recovery of those affected. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by travelers on Pakistan’s roads, where traffic rules are often flouted and safety standards are not strictly adhered to. As the country mourns the loss of 20 lives in this tragic accident, there is a renewed call for improved road safety measures and increased awareness among motorists to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The government is urged to take concrete actions to ensure the safety of all road users and make travel on Pakistan’s highways a less risky endeavor.
