A portion of the pedestrian bridge at Khanewal Railway Station collapsed recently, prompting swift action from Federal Minister for Railways, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi. Responding to the incident, the minister has suspended three key railway officials and initiated a high-level investigation.
According to an official notification, the suspended officers include Divisional Engineer Abid Razaq (Grade 18), Assistant Engineer Raja Yousuf (Grade 17), and Bridge Inspector Multan Muhammad Adil (Grade 16).
Minister Abbasi expressed concern over the collapse and stressed the importance of holding those responsible accountable. “He emphasized the need for accountability to prevent such occurrences in the future.”
To determine the cause and any possible negligence, a special inquiry committee has been formed. It comprises the Chief Executive Officer of Pakistan Railways, the Inspector General of Railway Police, and the Divisional Superintendent of Lahore.
“Minister Abbasi expressed regret over the incident and issued firm directives for strict action against those found responsible.”
CEO Pakistan Railways Aamir Ali Baloch has departed for Khanewal to personally oversee the situation.
Although no injuries have been reported, the collapse has raised significant concerns over infrastructure safety and maintenance at major railway stations across Pakistan.