At least 13 people lost their lives and several others were injured in a devastating road accident near Karachi after an oil tanker overturned onto a passenger van, authorities confirmed on Friday.
According to rescue officials, the tanker lost control and toppled onto the van, crushing it beneath its weight. A nearby car was also struck during the incident. The crash resulted in a significant oil spill, creating additional hazards and making rescue efforts more challenging.
Preliminary reports suggest that a vehicle traveling in the wrong direction may have forced the tanker driver to take evasive action, leading to the loss of control. However, Sindh Police said the exact cause of the accident will be determined following a comprehensive investigation.
The incident occurred on the Hyderabad-Karachi route, where emergency teams, including Rescue 1122 personnel, quickly responded and launched relief operations. Several passengers remained trapped inside the damaged van, prompting rescuers to use specialised cutting equipment to free them.
Authorities also deployed heavy cranes to remove the overturned tanker from the roadway, while efforts continued to contain the leaking oil that had spread across the accident site.
The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals for medical treatment as rescue operations remained underway. Officials warned motorists to avoid the affected route, citing ongoing recovery work and the continued danger posed by the fuel spill.
The tragic accident has once again raised concerns over road safety and the movement of heavy vehicles on some of the country’s busiest highways.
