Inspection Finds 60% of Shalimar Express Coaches Had No Brakes Before Fatal Crash

An inspection of the Shalimar Express involved in a fatal accident near Naushahro Feroze found that nine of its 18 coaches lacked brakes, according to multiple reports from Dawn. The passenger train collided with a stationary goods train at Lakha Road Railway Station, resulting in one death and 13 injuries. This discovery that nearly 60% of the coaches were operating as "dummy" units without braking capability raises serious safety concerns.

Initial investigations attributed the crash to driver error and crew negligence, citing an improperly set interlocking system as a possible factor, according to Dawn's coverage of the federal inquiry. However, the brake deficiencies identified suggest systemic maintenance failures prior to the collision. Pakistan Railways initially claimed 95% brake functionality in the train but later acknowledged the significant fault in nearly half the coaches.

The crash, which caused derailment of the Lahore-bound Shalimar Express, has triggered calls for accountability among railway officials responsible for maintenance and passenger safety. Authorities have launched a federal investigation to determine the exact causes of the collision and to reassess safety protocols across the network.

Moving forward, the inquiry will focus on verifying the safety status of all coaches and rolling stock while scrutinizing operational controls such as interlocking systems. The findings will be critical in preventing similar incidents and improving maintenance oversight in Pakistan’s railway system.