By Razi Tahir
Pakistan’s railway safety system is facing renewed scrutiny amid a reported rise in major train accidents, raising serious questions about maintenance standards, technical safeguards and accountability within the railway administration.
According to the figures cited, Pakistan recorded 35 major railway accidents in 2023, 40 in 2024 and 49 in 2025.
Nearly 40 additional accidents are reportedly believed to have occurred during the first ten months of 2026.
The reported numbers indicate an upward trend over the past three years, with the annual total increasing from 35 accidents in 2023 to 49 in 2025.
The reported incidents in 2026 have further intensified concerns about the effectiveness of existing safety measures.
On October 13, 2026, the Rahman Baba Express derailed near Sher Shah Railway Station in the Multan area. Initial reports said five people were killed and 49 others injured in the incident.
Following the accident, the federal government’s Inspector of Railways was directed to investigate the incident and determine its causes.
The latest derailment has renewed questions about the outcomes of investigations into previous railway accidents. How many inquiries have been completed? How many investigation reports have been made public? What shortcomings have been identified, and what disciplinary or legal action has been taken against officials found responsible?
A committee report concerning railway accidents over the preceding five years, their investigations and action against responsible officials was listed on the Senate of Pakistan’s website on April 2, 2026.
However, greater transparency is needed regarding the implementation of the committee’s recommendations and the practical outcomes of the investigations.
Why Are Train Accidents Continuing to Increase?
If investigations and corrective measures are ordered after major accidents, why do incidents continue to occur?
Questions have been raised about the maintenance of railway tracks and coaches, the effectiveness of signalling systems, the timely identification of technical faults and compliance with safety regulations.
However, the causes of individual accidents must be established through credible investigations rather than assumptions.
To address these concerns, the federal government and the Ministry of Railways should publish comprehensive data on major accidents over the past four years, including the number of completed and pending inquiries, investigation findings, recommendations and disciplinary or legal proceedings.
The results of technical audits covering railway tracks, locomotives, coaches, signalling systems and safety monitoring mechanisms should also be made public.
Protecting passengers’ lives is a fundamental responsibility of the railway administration. Emergency response measures and compensation for victims are important, but preventing future accidents requires identifying the underlying causes, establishing accountability and implementing effective safety reforms.
The central question remains whether previous investigations have translated into meaningful improvements — or whether recurring accidents continue to expose gaps in Pakistan’s railway safety system.