Five killed, 40 injured as bus plunges into drain near Hafizabad

At least five people were killed and 40 injured when a speeding passenger bus travelling from Lahore to Chiniot plunged into a drain near Kot Nakka in Hafizabad, rescue officials said on Thursday.

According to initial reports, the driver allegedly fell asleep while negotiating a turn.

Rescue teams shifted the bodies and injured passengers, including men and children, to nearby hospitals for treatment. A crane was used to pull the bus out of the drain.

Deputy Commissioner Syed Hussain Bahadur, Assistant Commissioner Rab Dino, police and rescue officials reached the scene to oversee relief operations.

The deputy commissioner directed hospital authorities to ensure the injured received the best possible medical care.

Rescue operations were underway, sources said, adding that some passengers were still missing.