Pakistan Railways recorded 164 major accidents between 2021 and 2025, resulting in 169 fatalities, according to data presented to the National Assembly on Friday.
The figures were shared by the Ministry of Railways in response to a question by lawmaker Asiya Naz Tanoli. Derailments of passenger trains accounted for the majority of incidents, with 132 cases recorded over the five-year period.
How many accidents has Pakistan Railways recorded in five years?
Pakistan Railways reported 448 total accidents between 2021 and 2025, of which 164 were classified as major. The worst year was 2025, with 49 major accidents, followed by 40 in 2024.
The network operates around 40,000 train movements annually, putting the major accident rate at an average of roughly 33 per year.
Who was killed in Pakistan Railways accidents between 2021 and 2025?
Of the 169 people killed over the five-year period, 134 were passengers, 28 were road users and seven were railway employees, the ministry's data showed.
The breakdown reflects the dual risk posed by Pakistan Railways accidents, to those on board trains and to people at level crossings and road intersections. Derailments were the single largest cause of major incidents, accounting for 132 of the 164 major accidents recorded.
What safety measures is Pakistan Railways taking?
Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said preventive measures included staff training, public awareness campaigns, upgrading level crossings, disciplinary action against negligent officials and routine safety inspections. Safety seminars and refresher courses were also underway, he added.
The disclosure comes as Pakistan continues efforts to modernize its ageing railway infrastructure, which has faced longstanding criticism over safety standards and maintenance.
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