A horrific incident unfolded near the Muzaffarabad bridge as a van traveling toward Multan Airport caught fire, leading to the death of four individuals and leaving two others critically injured. According to initial reports from the police, the van was en route from Kot Addu to Multan Airport when the tragic accident occurred.
The devastating fire broke out suddenly, engulfing the entire vehicle before the passengers could safely evacuate. Police confirmed that six people were inside the van when the fire erupted.
Rescue Operations Launched Immediately
Emergency services rushed to the scene as soon as the fire was reported. Rescue 1122 teams and local authorities reached the location quickly and began extinguishing the flames. Despite their prompt response, the intensity of the blaze left little time for passengers to escape.
The injured were immediately taken to a nearby medical facility. However, the severity of the burns sustained by the victims led to the tragic death of four individuals shortly after they were admitted. Two others, who suffered critical burn injuries, were later transferred to Nishtar Hospital in Multan for advanced treatment.
Police Investigating the Cause of Fire
Police authorities have launched a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire. Preliminary reports suggest that a mechanical fault or an electrical short circuit could be responsible, but officials have not ruled out other possibilities.
We are examining the vehicle remains and gathering eyewitness accounts to understand what triggered the blaze,a police spokesperson stated.At this point, nothing can be confirmed, but a technical fault is one of the suspected causes.
Victims Identified, Families Notified
As per police sources, efforts are underway to identify all the victims and notify their families. The charred state of the van and the severity of the injuries have made identification challenging. Authorities are relying on documents, mobile phones, and other available belongings from the scene to assist in the identification process.
Nishtar Hospital sources report that the two surviving passengers remain in critical condition. Hospital staff are providing round-the-clock care to stabilize their condition, and specialists have been called in due to the extensive nature of the burn injuries.
Traveling to Multan Airport Turns Tragic
The van was reportedly carrying passengers to Multan Airport, possibly to catch an early flight. The journey, which began in Kot Addu, was supposed to be a routine travel experience. Unfortunately, it turned into a devastating tragedy that claimed innocent lives.
Locals who witnessed the fire described it as sudden and intense. “Flames burst out of the van all of a sudden. We tried to help but it spread too fast,” said an eyewitness who called emergency services and assisted in initial rescue efforts.
Authorities Promise Full Investigation
District officials have assured the public that a comprehensive inquiry will be carried out. They emphasized the importance of vehicle safety checks and urged transport owners to ensure their vehicles are regularly inspected to prevent such avoidable tragedies.
The incident has also prompted renewed calls for stricter regulations on public and private transport vehicles, particularly those used for airport and intercity travel.
Community in Shock
The community in Kot Addu and Multan is in mourning following the heartbreaking news. Family members and relatives gathered at the hospital and police stations in hopes of finding more information about their loved ones.
Social media is flooded with messages expressing grief, sympathy, and demands for accountability. Many users are calling for better safety standards and emergency preparedness on highways and public routes.
Preventive Measures Being Considered
Local administration has directed a rapid audit of passenger vehicles operating in the region. Transportation officials are considering temporary checks on all vans and buses traveling between Kot Addu and Multan, especially those heading to the airport.
Additionally, safety advisories are expected to be issued soon for all drivers and vehicle owners, encouraging them to inspect fuel lines, electrical systems, and emergency exits regularly.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly things can turn fatal due to mechanical failures or negligence. Authorities and transport companies must take every step necessary to ensure passenger safety to avoid such heartbreaking losses in the future.
