Landslide halts Attock train services, stranding passengers

Train services on the Attock–Mari Indus–Multan railway section in Pakistan's Punjab province faced a temporary suspension Friday after heavy rainfall triggered a landslide. Mud and debris blocked the track between Jhamat and Chhab railway stations in Attock’s Jand tehsil, leaving passengers stranded.

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We understand that safety comes first, but passengers should be provided with drinking water and timely updates during emergencies.

One train was halted near Tunnel No. 129, and another, the 202-Up passenger train, stopped at Jhamat Railway Station. The disruption inconvenienced hundreds of passengers, with women, children, and the elderly particularly affected. Several travelers complained about the lack of basic facilities, including insufficient drinking water and unclear timelines for service resumption.

"We understand that safety comes first, but passengers should be provided with drinking water and timely updates during emergencies," a female passenger, Zahura Batool, told Dawn. Another traveler, Bisma Khattak, highlighted the difficulties faced by families with children, stating, "Many people had not prepared for a long stop. There should be arrangements for water and refreshments when trains are stranded."

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Many people had not prepared for a long stop. There should be arrangements for water and refreshments when trains are stranded.

Railway officials confirmed that emergency maintenance teams worked continuously to clear the debris and ensure safety before resuming operations. The track was cleared by Friday evening after a final safety inspection. No casualties or injuries were reported. The incident underscores the challenges railway operations face during the monsoon season in areas prone to landslides.

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Passengers are anxious because they do not know how long the delay will last. Regular announcements would help reduce concerns.