At least 17 individuals lost their lives, with 70 others sustaining injuries, following a tragic incident on Wednesday night in Balochistan’s Hub district, as confirmed by rescue and police authorities.
Initially, reports indicated a higher casualty count of 35, but this figure was later revised downwards by the police. The deceased have been transported to the Edhi morgue in Karachi, where 17 have been identified. Two additional bodies are slated for identification through DNA matching.
Sakro SDPO Wajid Ali, speaking to the press outside the morgue, mentioned that the driver, among the injured, has been apprehended.
The incident occurred when a truck, en route to Darga Shah Noorani, veered off the road near Ayan Peer, plummeting into a ravine. Police and locals estimated the truck to have carried over 120 passengers.
Rescue teams are on high alert, anticipating a potential rise in the death toll. Reports indicate that over 30 Edhi ambulances promptly reached the accident site.
The affected pilgrims hailed from Thatta, Sindh, as stated by the police. The Balochistan government expressed sorrow over the tragic event, announcing an emergency at Jam Ghulam Qadir Hospital in Hub.
Karachi Deputy Mayor Salman Abdullah Murad also conveyed his condolences, ensuring that the wounded receive adequate care and facilities within the city.
