An overcrowded passenger bus veered off a highway and plunged into a deep ravine in a remote area of southwestern Pakistan on Friday, killing at least 40 people and injuring eight others, according to local officials.
Details of the Crash
The accident occurred in Dana Sar, a remote area near the border of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. The bus was traveling on a mountainous highway when it lost control and fell into a rocky ravine, said senior police officer Abdul Ghani.
Rescue workers and volunteers rushed to the scene, recovering bodies and transporting the injured to nearby hospitals. The bus was reportedly carrying more passengers than its capacity, contributing to the severity of the incident.
Rescue and Response
Emergency teams worked through the day to retrieve victims from the wreckage. The injured were taken to hospitals in the region, with some in critical condition. Officials have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, including whether driver error or mechanical failure played a role.
According to local authorities, such accidents are common on Pakistan's poorly maintained roads, particularly in mountainous areas where sharp turns and steep drops pose significant risks.
Impact and Aftermath
The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for improved road safety measures and stricter enforcement of passenger limits. Families of the victims gathered at hospitals and morgues, mourning the loss of loved ones. The government has announced compensation for the families of the deceased and those injured.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of transportation safety in Pakistan, where overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure often lead to deadly accidents.
