At least 25 people lost their lives after a coaster was traveling from Rawalpindi to Pallandri plunged into a ditch Azad Patan an area of Rawalakot in Azad Jammu Kashmir.
According to rescue officials, teams shifted the bodies and the injured to a nearby hospital, where the treatment of the injured and the identification of the deceased are ongoing.
Earlier, a bus carrying pilgrims from Iran to Pakistan fell into a ditch due to brake failure near Busi Top on the Makran Coastal Highway.
In the tragic accident, 10 people died and more than 32 were injured.
Assistant Commissioner Kahuta Ayusha Zafar's conversation with the media in Rawalpindi said 24 people were traveling to Kashmir for Urs.
“The bodies of 23 individuals have been recovered from the scene. The deceased come from various districts in Kashmir, Abbottabad, and Punjab,” she told the media persons.
The assistant commissioner confirmed that 23 of the dead have been identified.
Seventeen bodies have been sent to their native areas.
The next of kin for the remaining 6 bodies have been notified. The cause of the accident was identified as the car's brakes failing, according to AC Ayusha Zafar.
Rescue 1122 spokesperson
Rescue 1122 spokesperson said a rescue vehicle arrived at the scene following reports of a bus falling into a ditch near Azad Patan Bridge.
The deceased include 20 men, 4 women, and a child.
The bodies are being transported to Tehsil Headquarters Kahuta for further processing.
According to preliminary information, 25 people have died and one person is injured.
The rescue operation is ongoing, with bodies and the injured being transferred to the hospital, the spokesperson added.
Prime Minister's statement on Rawalkot Bus accident
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has expressed deep regret over the tragic loss of lives in the Rawalkot bus accident. The Prime Minister extends his prayers for the deceased and offers Sabr Jameel (steadfast patience) for the families of the victims. He has directed the local administration to provide full support to the bereaved families and ensure immediate medical aid is given to the injured.
