10 Killed, 13 Injured After Tourist Van Catches Fire on Murree Expressway

RAWALPINDI: At least 10 people were killed and 13 others injured after a tourist van crashed and caught fire on the Islamabad-Murree Expressway on Wednesday.

According to initial reports:

The accident took place near Khajut, also reported as Khajot, when the passenger van was travelling towards Murree. The vehicle was carrying 23 people, reportedly members of the same family from Multan.

Motorway officials said the van hit a roadside barrier or wall before catching fire. The impact reportedly sparked a fire in the engine area, while the vehicle’s sliding door became jammed, making it difficult for passengers to escape.

Rescue teams and local authorities reached the scene after receiving information about the accident. The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals for medical treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were moved for legal formalities and identification.

Officials said overspeeding appeared to be one of the initial causes of the crash. However, authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to the accident and fire.

The tragedy has raised fresh concerns over road safety on routes leading to hill stations, especially during the tourist season when families and groups travel in large numbers to Murree and nearby areas.

Authorities have repeatedly advised drivers to avoid speeding on hilly and expressway routes, ensure vehicles are mechanically fit before long journeys, and follow traffic safety guidelines to prevent fatal accidents.