At least 18 individuals lost their lives and numerous others sustained injuries in a severe traffic collision on the Swat Expressway close to Ismaila in Rustam tehsil, Mardan district, officials confirmed on Monday.
The incident took place near the Saeedabad Khoro Koto Bridge in Ismaila when a passenger coach crashed into another passenger bus that had stopped by the roadside due to a mechanical issue. The stationary bus reportedly suffered a generator malfunction, compelling it to halt on the shoulder.
Subsequently, a speeding coach approaching from behind collided with the parked vehicle, causing significant casualties. The victims, both deceased and injured, are believed to be residents of Upper Dir and Bajaur districts. Authorities have yet to verify the identities of those affected.
Emergency response teams arrived promptly at the scene and continue to conduct rescue operations. The injured and deceased were transported to hospitals in Mardan for medical attention and further procedures.
In a significant development, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives in the accident on the Swat Expressway. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for peace for the departed souls.
Road accidents remain a persistent issue on Pakistan’s highways and motorways, frequently attributed to factors such as speeding, reckless driving, driver fatigue, and inadequate vehicle maintenance. Additionally, deteriorating road conditions contribute to the frequency of such incidents.
Earlier this month, a separate accident in Charbagh tehsil of Swat district resulted in the deaths of at least five people and injuries to ten others when a passenger van plunged into a ravine.
