A coach of the Tezgam Express travelling from Rawalpindi derailed near the Sihala Railway Crossing on Monday morning, causing panic among passengers who began screaming and reciting prayers after hearing a loud bang.

The Sihala Railway Crossing falls within the Islamabad area and is known for heavy traffic congestion. Due to safety concerns, trains are required to reduce their speed to between 10 and 20 kilometres per hour while passing through the area. Owing to the train’s slow speed, a major disaster was narrowly averted.

The incident occurred at around 8.25am. Railway officials and engineers reached the site and detached the affected coach from the train. After necessary arrangements, the train resumed its journey at 9.28am.