RAWALPINDI: At least 10 people lost their lives and 13 others sustained injuries on Wednesday when a passenger van carrying members of the same family plunged into a stormwater drain and caught fire on the Rawalpindi–Murree Expressway near Khajut, according to Motorway Police spokesperson Saqib Waheed.
Accident Details
Waheed stated that the Hiace van was traveling from the southern city of Multan to the popular hill station of Murree. While negotiating a bend, the vehicle lost control, fell into a drainage channel beside the roadway, and immediately burst into flames, trapping passengers inside. The van came to rest on its side, preventing the doors from opening and severely hindering escape efforts and rescue operations.
Rescue and Response
Emergency responders, including motorway police personnel, rescue teams, and officials from the Murree administration, rushed to the scene shortly after the accident was reported. Waheed confirmed that the bodies of the deceased and the injured survivors were transported to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad for medical treatment, identification, and further procedures. A heavy contingent of officers remained at the scene alongside local administration officials as rescue and recovery efforts continued. An investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the accident.
Government Reaction
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed deep sorrow and ordered an inquiry into the accident. In a statement, she offered condolences to the bereaved families and said the government had taken immediate notice of the incident, directing relevant authorities to submit a detailed report. She instructed rescue and administrative agencies to provide all possible assistance to the affected families and to continue support for those injured in the crash. Maryam also ordered officials to determine the causes of the accident and present a comprehensive report on the circumstances that led to the tragedy.
