Tragedy struck early Friday morning when a passenger bus, en route from Rawalpindi to Gilgit,
At least 20 killed, 21 injured as bus overturns on Karakoram Highway near Diamer
Tragedy struck early Friday morning when a passenger bus, en route from Rawalpindi to Gilgit, careened off the Karakoram Highway near Diamer district in Gilgit-Baltistan, claiming the lives of at least 20 individuals and leaving 21 others injured, according to rescue officials.
The bus, operated by a private company, met with the fatal accident as it lost control near Gunar Farm, flipping over and coming to rest near the banks of the Indus River around 5:30 am, recounted Diamer district rescue officer Shoukat Riaz.
Those injured were swiftly transported to Chilas Hospital, though the toll was initially higher, with several succumbing to their injuries, Riaz informed.
Among the casualties were three women, confirmed GB government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq, who also disclosed that the bus was carrying a total of 43 passengers.
Azmat Shah, a police official, reported that rescue operations had concluded, highlighting the critical condition of five among the injured.
Local religious leaders broadcasted news of the tragedy through mosque loudspeakers, rallying the community to donate blood for the wounded, Shah added.
Mohammad Zaman, a resident, recounted the outpouring of support from locals, with many rushing to the hospital to offer blood donations and volunteering to aid in transferring the injured and deceased.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his condolences and pledged comprehensive medical assistance to the injured, emphasizing their care as a top priority.
President Asif Ali Zardari echoed the sentiments, offering prayers for the departed and speedy recovery of the injured, as per a statement.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi extended heartfelt sympathies to the grieving families and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured, underscoring solidarity in their time of mourning, as conveyed in an official statement.
