At least 20 persons were killed and more than 60 injured when two passenger trains collided near Karachi Thursday.Divisional Superintendent of Railways told reporters that the collision occurred as Zakaria Express struck Fareed Express, which was stationary, between Juma Goth and Landhi Railway Station. It is reported that Railway officials gave a green signal to the train coming from behind by mistake, due to which the accident occurred.
Advisor to the Sindh Chief Minister of Labour Saeed Ghani told media two bogies of Fareed Express and one bogie of Zakaria Express were completely destroyed in the collision. Cranes were being used to clear the rubble and rescue all the passengers trapped inside the damaged carriages.
Police said, there were fears of a higher casualty toll as bodies still remained trapped in some of the rail cars. Rescue services are at the spot.
An enquiry has been ordered by the Railways Minister into the accident. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has offered condolences and asked authorities to provide all possible assistance to the families.