A young couple, Abdul Qayum and his wife Zainab, were eagerly awaiting the birth of their first child after Eidul Fitr. However, their dreams were tragically cut short when a speeding water tanker struck their motorcycle near Malir Halt Flyover in Model Colony, killing both parents and their unborn child.
The impact was devastating, as the truck dragged their bike underneath, instantly killing Abdul Qayum. Zainab, severely injured and lying in a pool of blood, gave birth in her final moments, but the newborn also did not survive.
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Eyewitnesses described the scene as harrowing, with shocked bystanders screaming in distress. A video circulated on social media showing a passerby desperately rushing the newborn to a hospital in an attempt to save its life.
This heartbreaking accident adds to Karachi’s alarming road fatality statistics, with 214 traffic-related deaths recorded this year. Heavy vehicles alone have been responsible for 68 deaths in just 83 days, including 17 from dumper crashes, 24 from trailer collisions, 14 from water tanker accidents, five from Mazda-truck incidents, and eight from bus crashes.
Outraged by the horrific tragedy, furious onlookers at the scene attacked the water tanker, smashing its windows and lights. The driver was apprehended, beaten by the crowd, and later handed over to the police along with his helper. Authorities also confiscated the vehicle.
Abdul Qayum, 28, and his wife Zainab resided in Malir Cantt. They had been returning home from Kohi Goth Hospital after a check-up when the accident occurred. Qayum was an employee of the Cantonment Board Malir.
The grieving family has called upon the government to take strict action against reckless heavy vehicle drivers. They urged officials to restrict tankers and dumpers to operating only after midnight to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Another video circulating online captured a citizen sprinting toward the hospital while carrying the newborn, hoping to save its life.
According to statistics provided by Chhipa authorities, this year’s road accidents have resulted in 214 deaths, including 162 men, 23 women, 22 children, and seven girls. Additionally, 2,783 people have been injured, comprising 2,292 men, 367 women, 95 children, and 29 girls.
The tragic loss of Abdul Qayum, Zainab, and their unborn child has left the community in grief and anger. Residents have demanded concrete measures from the government to prevent further deadly accidents involving heavy vehicles.
