Tragedy in Ghotki

On Monday (June 7), the country woke up to the tragic news of a horrible train accident. In Ghotki, Sindh, two passenger trains the Millat Express and the Sir Syed Express collided, claiming the lives of more than 50 people. Around 100 passengers were wounded. According to media reports, the Millat Express overturned near the Daharki town. Later, the Sir Syed Express crashed into the collapsed train. The chairman of Pakistan Railways expressed that he knew that the track was in poor condition. This statement has raised questions about the railways’ negligence.

It is important to mention that such incidents are, unfortunately, quite common in our country. The main reason for these accidents is that the higher authorities don’t have an effective system that can keep a check on the working of a state institution. Also, ideally, old railway tracks should have been replaced a long time back. However, the government hasn’t carried out timely repair work to date. The authorities should at least pay attention to the maintenance of railway tracks. It is time the authorities concerned paid attention to this serious issue.

Inaya Usman

Peshawar

*****

More than a hundred people have lost their lives in the numerous train accidents that have occurred during the tenure of the PTI-led government. On Monday, a horrific train accident claimed the lives of more than 50 passengers. It is quite disappointing that no considerable improvement has been made to improve railway infrastructure, reduce the number of fatal accidents, and bring internationally recognised safety measures to the railways. Unfortunately, the PTI has done nothing to improve the performance of state institutions.

Government representatives are often found blaming the previous governments for the poor performance of the current government. Had the incumbent government worked towards uplifting Pakistan Railways – instead of focusing on a war of words with its opponents – the railways would have witnessed positive changes. The relevant minister must resign immediately.

Engr Asim Nawab

Islamabad