Lahore: Nine coaches of the Nankana Sahib-bound special train carrying Sikh pilgrims to attend Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary celebrations derailed in Pakistan’s Punjab province on Saturday.
Also read: Pakistan grants 2,942 visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims for Nov 6-15 festive season
No one was injured in the accident.
Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary will be observed on November 8.
Pakistan Railways spokesperson said the special train carrying Sikh pilgrims was on its way to Nankana Sahib from Karachi when nine of its bogies derailed between Shorkot and Pir Mahl railway stations in the province.
Rescue teams rushed to the site of the incident and launched relief operations.
“Most of the passengers have been accommodated in the first part of the train (which was on track) and left for Nankana at 9:55am. Arrangements have also been made for the departure of the remaining passengers,” Pakistan Railways tweeted.
Most of the passengers were adjusted in another train and already left for Nankana, while arrangements were underway to send the remaining Sikh pilgrims as well.
Federal minister Khawaja Saad Rafique has constituted an inquiry committee to probe the incident.
{{/usCountry}}Federal minister Khawaja Saad Rafique has constituted an inquiry committee to probe the incident.
{{/usCountry}}The committee will submit its report within three days.