Pakistan Railways Records 537 Accidents in Five Years, Urgent Safety Reforms Needed

Between 2020 and 2025, a total of 537 accidents on Pakistan Railways highlighted the urgent need for safety reforms in their national network. Many collisions were connected to unsafe level crossings, making them one of the most significant risks to both train and road users in the country.

The concerning data highlights how Pakistan Railways is deteriorating and that safety measures have been given inadequate attention for a long time.

313 Accidents Resulted in Fatalities or Serious Injuries

Of all 537 incidents, 313 ended in death or serious injury. Such numbers reveal the harsh reality of what happens when progress is delayed and fewer safety measures are implemented. Service on routes that were once meant to unite and help the nation is now more commonly associated with danger.

The frequency and severity of these accidents lead us to question the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of public transport.

40,750 Train Trips Per Year – And Rising Risks

Pakistan Railways handles approximately 40,750 train trips per year. The numbers add up to an issue with an average of 107 railway accidents each year. The situation worsened in 2020, with 84 accidents occurring at several locations.

The sheer number of trains, despite resulting in numerous accidents, highlights problems that cannot be ignored any longer.

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Unsafe Level Crossings: The Weakest Link

The most common cause of railway accidents in Pakistan is unsafe crossings. Such crossings are usually left completely alone or poorly maintained. Issues to be considered are:

• There is no warning before or during the explosion.

Lack of automated barriers or gates you find in underground stations

There are not enough staff members at the crossings.

• A poor view and broken lights

Many drivers and pedestrians in city outskirts and suburbs have to negotiate crossings without being warned, which increases the threat of disastrous road accidents.

Infrastructure Problems and Lack of Modernization

Outdated infrastructure is one of the leading causes of the safety problems at Pakistan Railways. Much of the railway lines were put in place during the colonial period, and there have been limited recent upgrades. Areas of concern now include:

• Age-old tracks are liable to see trains derail.

• Vehicles that require repair

Only manual routes were used instead of electronic networks.

Low maintenance of bridges and tunnels

The railway system suffers from inefficiency and lack of safety thanks to a shortage of skilled staff and limited investment.

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Experts Demand Immediate Safety Reforms

Professionals throughout the country are urgently recommending railway safety reforms. Actions to consider for addressing climate change are:

1.         All leveling crossings are being updated to use automatic barriers and up-to-date signal systems.

2.         Setting up CCTV cameras at main crossings and stations to keep an eye on and respond as required.

3.         Training railway staff and operators about safety on an ongoing basis.

4.         Spreading awareness about railway safety among people who live in dangerous spots.

5. Conducting regular safety audits and setting aside funds for essential safety improvements.

Some believe these actions are necessary because Pakistan Railways remains a significant threat to the nation.

Public Demands Accountability

Increasing numbers of citizens are demanding greater accountability within Pakistan Railways. Families often complain about many aspects of dealing with accident claims.

• Late or unsure payment, along with no assistance

• Nothing is revealed about accident investigations

• Same locations see many of the accidents

No one who is minor can be sued or punished for being negligent.

Both the Ministry of Railways and government bodies are being asked to make railway safety a top priority for the nation rather than just something officials have to follow.

Learning from Global Railway Safety Standards

Due to the efforts in Japan, Germany, and the UK, we have excellent models of railway safety systems.

Having a solid legal foundation

Information technology is now driving many of the rules for banks.

The railways have their own police and monitoring groups.

Following an advanced maintenance schedule.

Pakistan will gain significantly if it implements similar systems, primarily automating areas that face risks and tracking data in real time to prevent accidents.

A Wake-Up Call That Must Not Be Ignored

The 537 railway incidents in five years should serve as a wake-up call for us all. They are not all single events; they clearly indicate that safety and accountability have given way. There can be no modernization of public transport in Pakistan without systematic railway reform.

Overlooked red flags put lives at risk and damage trust in the nation’s oldest form of transport.

Conclusion: Prioritize Passenger Safety Now

As lives continue to be lost, Pakistan Railways must modernize its services. Due to the high number of accidents, particularly those resulting from unsafe crossings, the railway requires immediate improvement through the adoption of new techniques, training, and the enhancement of rolling stock.

Pressure from the public, expert suggestions, and the government’s determination gives the country ways to enhance the safety, smartness, and dependability of the rail system. Now is the time for action, as prioritizing passengers is more important than letting things continue as they are.