Pakistan's Railway Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique on Monday said lack of resources was the real cause of the recent tragic train accident. He added that a probe is on and individuals responsible would be punished.
Dawn quoted Rafique as saying, “A very terrifying railway accident took place in which 30 precious lives were lost. This is a consequence of our lack of resources.” The minister said though an investigation has been launched, shortage of resources was the real issue. “The real [issue] responsible [for it] is that we do not have resources. We are unable to maintain things,” Dawn reported quoting the minister.
The minister said the preliminary inquiry report has arrived but there was difference of opinion. Rafique asserted that those responsible for the accident would be punished. The minister said that if required investment is not made in the railways [sector] in Pakistan, then the already-established system will be absolutely ruined. He added that future governments should pay attention to railway projects as well.
The Hazara Express train travelling from Karachi to Rawalpindi derailed on Sunday in Nawabshah district and at least 31 persons were killed in the accident. According to reports, 10 bogies of the train got derailed. Official sources in the Pakistan Railways termed the derailment of the Havailian-bound Hazara Express as a result of the breaking of the railway line, and hot axle, which jammed movement.
(With PTI inputs.)