The death toll from a devastating multi-vehicle crash on the M9 Motorway near Kathore has risen to 14 after several injured victims succumbed to their wounds. Authorities confirmed that at least five others remain under medical treatment following the incident.
Details of the Accident
According to rescue and police officials, the collision involved an oil tanker, a passenger coach, and several other vehicles. The accident occurred on Friday near Kathore when, officials said, the coach was reportedly travelling on the wrong side of the road.
The impact was severe, and some passengers were thrown off a bridge during the crash, leading to multiple fatalities and serious injuries. Initial rescue operations shifted 11 bodies to the Edhi Sohrab Goth mortuary, while the injured were transported to nearby hospitals. The death toll later increased as three more injured victims died during treatment.
Majority of Victims From One Family
Relatives told Geo News that 12 of the deceased belonged to the same family. They had travelled from Kotri to attend a wedding in Shah Latif Town and were returning home when the tragedy occurred.
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After completion of legal formalities, the bodies are expected to be transported back to Kotri for burial. Among the victims were women and children, including a three-year-old boy identified as Imran. Police also confirmed that the oil tanker driver, Rafiullah, lost his life in the crash.
Official Response and Investigation
Javed Akhtar Odho, Inspector General of Police Sindh, directed authorities to immediately secure the accident site and begin a thorough investigation. Rescue and law-enforcement teams worked to clear the area and assist victims.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families. He instructed the Sindh government to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured and prayed for their swift recovery.
Road Safety Concerns on M9
Fatal road accidents remain a recurring issue in Pakistan, often linked to traffic violations, poor enforcement of safety laws, and deteriorating road conditions.
The 136-kilometre M9 Motorway, which connects Karachi and Hyderabad, has increasingly drawn criticism from commuters due to bumps, cracks, and uneven patches. Earlier this month, another accident near Lunikot in Jamshoro district claimed the lives of three people, including a woman and her minor daughter.
The latest tragedy has once again highlighted the urgent need for improved road safety measures, stricter traffic enforcement, and better infrastructure maintenance to prevent further loss of life.
