QUETTA: In a tragic turn of events during the three days of Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, Balochistan’s national highways became the site of a major road safety crisis, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to 749 others across 514 separate accidents.
According to official data released by the Medical Emergency Response Center (MERC) Balochistan, the province witnessed a staggering number of both minor and major vehicular accidents over the holiday period. The statistics highlight the perilous state of road safety in the region, with emergency services working around the clock to manage the influx of casualties.
The National Highway N-25, a critical artery connecting various districts, proved to be the most dangerous route. The stretch passing through Lakpas, Kalat, Khuzdar, Lasbela, and Winder recorded the highest number of incidents. Officials reported that this highway alone accounted for 180 accidents, resulting in 300 injuries. The data also noted fatalities on this route, though the total death toll for the province remained at two.
Other major highways also saw significant bloodshed. On the National Highway N-50, which runs through Qila Saifullah, Zhob, and Sherani, authorities recorded 231 accidents that left 294 people injured. The Zhob region was particularly affected, with 182 of those accidents occurring within its jurisdiction.
Further details released by the emergency services reveal the widespread nature of the incidents:
· Makran Coastal Highway N-10: 14 accidents near Phur, Rasmal, Mara, Pasni, and Nalint resulted in 24 injuries.
· Highway N-65: 30 accidents led to 47 injuries.
· Highway N-85: 13 accidents caused 21 injuries.
· Motorway M-8: 7 accidents resulted in 8 injuries.
· Highways N-86, N-70, and N-40: A combined 27 accidents left 35 people injured.
