A devastating road accident on the national highway near Sibi, Balochistan, claimed the lives of four passengers and left at least 18 others injured after a passenger coach overturned during its journey from Sadiqabad to Quetta.
According to reports from Geo News, the passenger coach, loaded with travelers, met with the fatal accident while en route to Quetta. Levies officials confirmed that the vehicle lost control and overturned on a section of the highway near Sibi, resulting in immediate chaos and panic among the passengers.
Eyewitnesses described the moment as horrifying, with the bus flipping onto its side and throwing passengers off their seats. The cause of the crash is yet to be confirmed, but authorities suspect over-speeding or driver fatigue might have played a role. The condition of the road and visibility at the time are also under investigation.
Emergency services were swiftly mobilized following the incident. Rescue teams, along with Levies personnel and volunteers from nearby areas, rushed to the scene. The injured were pulled out from the wreckage and transported to the nearest district hospital in Sibi for urgent medical treatment. Among the injured are women and children, with some reported to be in critical condition.
Hospital sources confirmed the arrival of 18 injured individuals, while four bodies were shifted to the mortuary. Medical staff at the hospital have been put on high alert, and additional resources have been allocated to handle the emergency situation. Authorities are also working to identify the deceased and notify their families.
Local officials have expressed their sorrow over the tragedy. “This is a deeply saddening incident. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. We will ensure that all necessary medical assistance is provided to the injured,” said a spokesperson for the Balochistan government.
In the aftermath of the crash, a temporary traffic disruption occurred on the national highway, leading to long queues of vehicles. However, law enforcement agencies managed to restore traffic flow after clearing the wreckage.
This accident has once again raised serious concerns over road safety and the condition of public transport in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan. The region, known for its long and winding roads, has seen a troubling rise in traffic accidents, many of which involve public transportation.
Transportation analysts and civil society activists have long called for stricter enforcement of traffic laws, regular maintenance of highways, and better training for drivers. Additionally, the lack of emergency medical services along remote stretches of highways like the one near Sibi significantly delays critical care for accident victims.
This tragic incident serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for transport reforms, including safety checks for long-route buses, enforcement of speed limits, and driver rest regulations to prevent fatigue-related mishaps.
As investigations continue, the authorities have assured the public that those responsible for any negligence leading to this incident will be held accountable. Meanwhile, the nation mourns the loss of four lives and hopes for the recovery of those who have been injured.
Further updates are expected as the situation develops and as more information becomes available from hospital sources and investigators.
