On June 10, 2026, a tourist van caught fire after a serious crash on the Islamabad-Murree Expressway near Khajut. The accident left at least 10 people dead and 13 others injured.
The Hiace van was carrying 23 passengers from Multan who were traveling together as a family or group for a holiday trip to Murree. According to Motorway Police spokesperson Saqib Waheed, the driver lost control of the vehicle while taking a sharp turn. The van hit a roadside barrier, plunged into a drainage channel or ravine, and quickly caught fire.
The situation became worse because the van overturned onto the side with the sliding door. This trapped many passengers inside, making it hard for them to escape. Fire started in the engine area, and some people suffered severe burn injuries. Rescue teams, including firefighters and local administration, reached the spot quickly. They pulled out bodies and rushed the injured to hospitals like the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad. Several children were among the victims.
Initial reports suggest the van may have been speeding. Officials are investigating the exact cause. It could be due to overspeeding, mechanical failure, or poor road conditions. Punjab leaders expressed deep sorrow and asked for the best medical care for the injured. They also ordered a detailed report.
This sad incident reminds us of the dangers on Pakistan’s hilly roads. Better safety measures, careful driving, and regular vehicle checks are very important to prevent such tragedies in the future. Our thoughts are with the families who lost their loved ones.
