PAKISTANI police said at least 19 people were killed and 35 injured when two buses collided in eastern Punjab province.

Officer Imran Yaqoob said the collision took place Sunday night over a bridge near the city of Dera Ghazi Khan and that the death toll could increase as many of the injured are in critical condition.

Yaqoob said both buses were speeding when they collided. He added that most of the victims, including women and children, were from one extended family traveling from Dera Ghazi Khan to Multan.

According to rescue and police sources, 15 people died on the spot and four later succumbed to injuries after being transported to nearby hospitals.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and President Arif Alvi have expressed condolences over the tragic incident in separate statements.

They also directed the local authorities to provide the best medical assistance to the injured passengers. Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar also condoled over the loss of lives in the tragic incident.

Traffic accidents are common in Pakistan where motorists largely disregard traffic rules and ignore safety standards.

(SD-Agencies)