Eight Dead in Shikarpur Muharram Electrocution Incident
At least eight people were killed and five others sustained critical injuries after an Alam (religious flag) came into contact with an 11,000-volt overhead electricity transmission line during a Muharram mourning procession in Budo Goth village, located in Sindh’s Shikarpur district. The incident occurred on [date], plunging the community into grief.
Details of the Accident
According to rescue officials, the tragedy unfolded when participants were attempting to raise the Alam during the procession. The large metal flag inadvertently touched the high-tension power line, resulting in a powerful electric shock that instantly killed or severely injured those nearby. Local residents and rescue teams rushed to the scene and transported the victims to nearby hospitals. Initial medical treatment was administered on site before the injured were referred to advanced care facilities in Shikarpur, Sukkur, and Larkana. Officials reported that several of the injured remain in critical condition.
Victims and Community Response
The deceased were identified as Hidayatullah, Abdul Waheed, Mohammad Khalid, Mohammad Zahid, Shafiq Ahmed, Din Mohammad, Arbab, and Mohammad Hassan. All were members of the local Jaffaria community and were participating in the traditional religious ceremony. Funeral prayers for the deceased were held in the village, attended by district officials including District Chairman Zulfiqar Ali Khan Kamario, SSP Kaleem Malik, and Deputy Commissioner Shakeel Ahmed Abro. Religious scholars, leaders of various religious organizations, and a large number of mourners also participated. The tragedy cast a pall of gloom over the village and surrounding areas.
Investigation and Political Reaction
Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances that led to the incident. The accident occurred in Bodo Walisabad village near Dakkhan town, where hundreds had gathered for the annual mourning observances commemorating the martyrs of Karbala. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed deep sorrow and grief over the loss of lives. In a press statement, he extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and urged the public to exercise maximum caution during religious gatherings. He also called upon relevant authorities to implement effective safety measures and coordination to prevent such tragedies in the future.
