At least 12 people were killed and 13 injured when a 22-wheeler truck lost control and crashed into several vehicles at Ambiri Kala Chowk on the Indus Highway in Karak, local authorities said on Saturday.
Deputy Commissioner Karak confirmed that the accident occurred due to brake failure, Express News reported.
“Emergency services are still removing bodies and survivors from the rubble, including a passenger bus crushed under the truck,” he said, adding that hospitals in the area were on red alert.
Police fear the death toll could rise as rescue teams work to recover victims. A passenger car remains trapped under the truck, delaying efforts to assess the magnitude of the tragedy.
The truck driver, identified as Samiullah from Lakki Marwat district, was injured and is detained at a local hospital.
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi took note of the incident and ordered health authorities to provide urgent medical assistance to the injured. Kundi also ordered Pakistan Red Crescent teams to intensify relief operations at the accident site.
In a statement, the governor urged locals to help in relief efforts and donate blood to meet the growing demand.
According to police, traffic has been restored on the main road, although the accident site remains partially cordoned off.
