9 coaches of Nankana Sahib-bound special train carrying Sikh pilgrims derail in Pakistan
Lahore (PTI): Nine coaches of the Nankana Sahib-bound special train carrying Sikh pilgrims to attend Guru Nanak's birth anniversary celebrations derailed in Pakistan's Punjab province on Saturday. No one was injured in the accident.
Guru Nanak's birth anniversary will be observed on November 8.
Pakistan Railways spokesperson said that the special train, carrying Sikh pilgrims, was on its way to Nankana Sahib from Karachi when nine of its bogies derailed around 7.55 pm between Shorkot and Pir Mahl railway stations in the province.
Rescue teams rushed to the site of the incident and launched relief operations, however, no casualty was reported.
"Most of the passengers have been accommodated in the first part of the train (which was on track) and left for Nankana at 9:55. Arrangements have also been made for the departure of the remaining passengers. No injuries or casualties have been reported in this regard yet. DS Lahore along with the team is reaching the spot," Pakistan Railways tweeted.
Most of the passengers were adjusted in another train and already left for Nankana, while arrangements were underway to send the remaining Sikh pilgrims as well.
It is not known whether the train was also carrying Sikh pilgrims from India.
Meanwhile, federal minister Khawaja Saad Rafique has constituted an inquiry committee to probe into the incident.
The committee, comprising COPS Safety, CEN Open Lines and CME Carriage would dig out facts about the derailment and submit its report within three days.
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MEA reports more than 200 Indians enlisted in Russian military since 2022; 26 deaths confirmed
More than 200 Indian nationals have joined the Russian armed forces since 2022, with 26 are confirmed dead, MEA—The Ministry of External Affairs have informed the Upper house of the Parliament: Rajya Sabha.
In a written response, the Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, has stated that at least 202 Indians are reported to have joined the Russian army. Among these recruited personnels, 26 have lost their lives; while, seven individuals have been reported missing by Russian authorities. He added that the remains of two deceased Indian nationals were cremated in Russia.
Singh noted that the sustained diplomatic efforts by the Indian government have led to the early discharge of 119 individuals. He further added that the discussions are going smoothly with the Russians to secure the release of the remaining personnel, with efforts underway to facilitate the early discharge of 50 more Indian nationals.
According to the minister, the Union government is in contact with Russian authorities to ensure the safety, welfare, and prompt return of Indian citizens serving in the Russian army. The issue, he said, is being addressed at multiple levels, including interactions between senior leaders, ministers, and officials of both countries.
The said disclosure was made in response to queries raised by Saket Gokhale, the MP of Trinamool Congress, and Randeep Singh Surjewala, the MP of INC, regarding the number of Indians allegedly recruited into the military service in Russia; Along with the details of deaths and missing persons reported since 2022.
