At least 12 people lost their lives, and 13 others were injured when a 22-wheeler lorry veered out of control and collided with multiple vehicles at Ambiri Kala Chowk on the Indus Highway in Karak, local authorities reported on Saturday.
Deputy Commissioner Karak attributed the accident to brake failure, as reported by Express News.
“Rescue teams are still working to extract bodies and survivors from the wreckage, including a passenger bus crushed beneath the lorry,” he said, noting that hospitals in the area have been placed on high alert.
Police expressed concerns that the death toll might rise as efforts to free a passenger coach trapped under the lorry continue, hindering a full assessment of the tragedy.
The lorry driver, identified as Samiullah from Lakki Marwat district, sustained injuries and is currently under arrest at a local hospital.
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has taken notice of the incident, directing health authorities to provide immediate medical care to the injured. He also instructed the Pakistan Red Crescent to intensify relief efforts at the crash site.
In his statement, the governor urged locals to contribute to the relief operations and donate blood to address the increasing demand.
Police confirmed that traffic on the Indus Highway has been restored, although the crash site remains partially sealed off.
