Libya Boat Tragedy Claims Lives of Pakistanis; Bodies Repatriated to Parachinar
The Libya boat tragedy resulted in the loss of 16 Pakistani lives, with 12 bodies repatriated, primarily affecting families from Parachinar. The victims were mourned deeply by their relatives, highlighting the harsh realities prompting many to seek better lives abroad amid insecurity and unemployment.
PARACHINAR: The tragic loss of life from the Libya boat incident has prompted the repatriation of 12 out of the 16 Pakistani victims to their homeland. On February 5, a boat carrying migrants capsized off the Libyan coast, claiming several lives, with 16 identified as Pakistani nationals, 13 of whom hailed from Parachinar. The deceased arrived at Islamabad Airport via Qatar Airways and were subsequently transported to Peshawar by ambulances.
From Peshawar, the remains of the nine victims from Parachinar were airlifted back to their hometown, where they were interred in their family graveyards following funeral prayers. Kurram Deputy Commissioner Ashfaq Ahmed noted that the remaining four bodies are expected to arrive in Islamabad this Saturday, with plans for their transfer to Parachinar via helicopter.
Among the casualties was 20-year-old Abid Hussain, whose grief-stricken brother, Mushahid Hussain, reflected on the devastating impact of his brother’s untimely death, stating, “His death has shattered our home.” Similarly, Saber Hussain mourned his younger brother, Asif, who had sought a better life abroad amidst insecurity and unemployment.
Saber detailed Asif’s departure, noting, “He left without informing us. Losing him is painful, but the situation here is such that if I get a chance, I, too, will leave this place for a peaceful life and better employment.” Meanwhile, Mukhtar, brother of deceased Ashfaq Hussain, expressed his family’s grief, stating, “Ashfaq’s death has devastated our family. He was not even married yet.”
The Libya boat tragedy has profoundly impacted the families of the victims, with 12 bodies repatriated to Pakistan, specifically affecting the community from Parachinar. The ongoing challenges faced by the victims highlight the dire circumstances that compel individuals to seek opportunities abroad, often at great personal risk. The community mourns the untimely loss of these young lives, while their families experience an irreplaceable void.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
