ISLAMABAD (PEN) : At least four people were killed and 26 others injured early Wednesday morning when a passenger bus collided with a mango-laden truck on the M5 Motorway near Iqbalabad, Rahim Yar Khan.
Accident Caused by Driver Fatigue, Say Authorities
According to Rescue 1122 officials, the bus was travelling from Karachi to Pakpattan when its driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. This led to the vehicle veering off course and crashing into the truck, resulting in significant damage to both vehicles.
A spokesperson for Rescue 1122 confirmed that all casualties were bus passengers. “The initial assessment indicates that the primary cause was driver fatigue and negligence,” the official said. Authorities have launched a formal investigation into the incident.
Emergency Response and Casualty Update
Motorway police and rescue teams reached the site shortly after receiving the emergency call. Ten individuals with minor injuries were treated on-site, while 16 others were transported to local hospitals for further medical attention.
Efforts are ongoing to identify the deceased, and officials are working to notify their families.
Traffic Diversion and Evidence Collection
The motorway police cordoned off the accident site to secure evidence and manage the traffic situation. Alternate routes were provided to ensure smooth vehicular flow on the busy motorway stretch.
Formal Inquiry Underway
Law enforcement agencies have begun collecting data and witness statements as part of a formal inquiry. The incident has once again raised concerns about long-haul driver safety and fatigue management on national highways.
