Pakistan Railways has temporarily suspended train services from Karachi after 17 wagons of a freight train derailed near Wahab Shah Railway Station in Matiari district. The accident blocked both the up and down railway tracks on the main rail corridor connecting Karachi with the rest of the country.
Railway officials said restoration work is underway, but the damaged section may remain closed for up to 24 hours, causing delays and disruptions for passenger trains traveling through Sindh.
Train Service Suspension
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Incident | Freight Train Derailment |
| Location | Wahab Shah Railway Station, Matiari |
| Affected Route | Main Karachi Railway Line |
| Wagons Derailed | 17 |
| Casualties | None Reported |
| Estimated Restoration Time | Up to 24 Hours |
What Happened?
According to Pakistan Railways officials, the freight train carrying coal hopper wagons was traveling from Karachi to Yousafwala when 17 wagons left the tracks near Wahab Shah Railway Station.
The derailment caused extensive damage to the railway infrastructure, with several sections of the track breaking completely. As a result, both railway lines were blocked, forcing Pakistan Railways to suspend train operations on the affected route.
Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported in the incident.
Restoration Work Underway
Pakistan Railways immediately launched restoration operations after the accident.
Officials confirmed that:
- Two relief trains have reached the site.
- Railway engineering teams are repairing the damaged track.
- Rescue and technical staff are removing the derailed wagons.
- Work is continuing around the clock to restore train operations.
Because multiple sections of the railway track were severely damaged, officials believe repairs may take up to 24 hours.
Passenger Trains Affected
The derailment has disrupted railway operations across Sindh, with several passenger trains stopped at different stations.
The affected trains include:
| Train | Current Location |
|---|---|
| Karakoram Express | Hyderabad Station |
| Allama Iqbal Express | Kotri Station |
| Pakistan Express | Landhi Station |
| Tezgam Express | Drigh Road Station |
| Millat Express | Karachi Cantt Station |
| Fareed Express | Karachi Cantt Station |
In addition, several other passenger trains have been delayed or halted at:
- Hyderabad
- Tando Adam
- Rohri
- Karachi
- Other railway stations across Sindh
Passengers are advised to confirm the latest train schedule before leaving for the station.
Why the Restoration Is Taking Time
Railway officials explained that the derailment caused significant structural damage to both railway tracks.
The restoration process includes:
- Removing all derailed wagons.
- Repairing broken railway tracks.
- Inspecting signaling systems.
- Conducting safety checks before reopening the line.
Only after completing these inspections will Pakistan Railways resume normal operations.
Advice for Passengers
Passengers planning to travel from Karachi or other cities on the affected railway route should:
- Check the latest train status before departure.
- Stay updated through official Pakistan Railways announcements.
- Expect delays until restoration work is completed.
- Contact railway helplines for revised schedules.
Final Thoughts
The suspension of train services from Karachi has caused major disruptions to rail travel after a freight train derailed near Matiari, blocking one of Pakistan’s busiest railway routes. While no injuries have been reported, extensive damage to the tracks means restoration work is expected to continue for up to 24 hours. Pakistan Railways is working to clear the damaged wagons and repair the railway line so passenger and freight services can safely resume as soon as possible.