KU student dies after being hit by point bus on campus

A second-year female student of the social works department at the University of Karachi (KU) tragically lost her life after being struck by a university point bus on campus.

The deceased was identified as Aniqa Saeed. Following her tragic death, KU Vice Chancellor (VC) Dr Khalid Iraqi suspended the driver allegedly responsible for the accident and formed an inquiry committee to investigate the incident.

According to university officials, the committee includes the transport incharge from the NED University, two student representatives and Dr Naeema Saeed from the criminology department who has been appointed as the convener. The committee has been tasked with reviewing the circumstances that led to the accident and presenting recommendations to prevent such incidents in the future.

The accident occurred near Dr Mahmood Hussain Library. Mobina Town SHO Haq Nawaz said the mishap occurred at around 9:20am. Citing initial investigations, he stated that at the time of the accident, two to three university point buses were parked at the location and students were getting off them. When the deceased student had left the bus and began walking in front of one of the buses, the driver negligently moved the vehicle forward hitting the student, who died on the spot.

Regarding the arrest of the bus driver, the SHO said the driver had not been arrested as the victim’s family refused to pursue legal action. He added that the police were currently waiting to see if the family changed their stance; otherwise, they may consider registering a case on behalf of the state if it was legally appropriate.

Following the accident, the female student was rushed to a hospital nearby where she was pronounced dead upon arrival. Police and rescuers arrived at the scene shortly after the incident. Police said they were in contact with the family and preparing a detailed report on the accident.

The incident sparked grief and anger across the university, leading to a large student protest. Students demanded a thorough investigation into the incident and called for the university administration to implement effective traffic control measures on campus to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The protesting students also chanted slogans against the administration, criticising the lack of safety measures at the campus. They said there was no proper traffic management system within the varsity, nor were there any speed breakers or warning signs, which put the students’ lives at risk.

They also urged the administration to provide financial assistance to the deceased student’s family. Upon receiving the news of the accident, the KU VC directed the campus security adviser, Dr Salman Zubair, and the acting students’ adviser, Dr Sarwat Afshan, to immediately reach the Dow Hospital and meet the bereaved family.

Karachi University Officers Welfare Association President Dr Syed Faisal Hashmi and others also reached the hospital to offer condolences to the bereaved family. Later, Dr Iraqi also visited the family to offer his sympathies and assured them of the university’s full support during the difficult time.

The KU has also stated that on the basis of the findings of the committee formed by the VC, the varsity would implement effective measures to prevent such unfortunate events in the future.