At least 11 people were killed and 33 others injured after a passenger bus collided with a speeding truck in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province, rescue officials said on Friday.

The accident occurred in Pakpattan district on Depalpur Road, where a passenger bus travelling from Multan to Kasur collided with a truck, according to Rescue 1122 and local authorities.

The force of the collision caused the bus to overturn, trapping several passengers beneath the wreckage. Rescue teams launched a large-scale operation using cranes and heavy equipment to free those trapped inside the vehicle.

Rescue operation lasted several hours

Rescue 1122 said at least 11 people died at the scene, while 33 others sustained injuries. Several of the wounded were reported to be in critical condition and were transferred to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.

Authorities declared an emergency at the District Headquarters Hospital in Pakpattan, where additional doctors and medical staff were called in to handle the large number of casualties.

Senior district officials and police officers also arrived at the scene to supervise rescue efforts and coordinate the transfer of the injured to medical facilities.

Investigation underway into cause of crash

Police said the identities of several victims had yet to be officially confirmed and that an investigation had been launched to determine the exact cause of the collision.

Preliminary reports suggested that excessive speed may have contributed to the crash, although authorities said it was too early to draw final conclusions pending the outcome of the investigation.

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished the injured a speedy recovery. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also sought a detailed report on the incident and instructed officials to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the victims.

Road accidents remain a major public safety challenge in Pakistan due to speeding, poor road conditions and weak enforcement of traffic regulations. Serious bus and truck accidents occur frequently across the country, often resulting in heavy casualties.(ILKHA)