At least 71 people have tragically lost their lives after a truck, heavily loaded with passengers, plunged into a river in southern Ethiopia. The accident occurred in the Bona district, in the Sidama region, on Sunday, with initial reports stating that the death toll was around 60 before being updated to 71 on Monday.
The Accident
The truck, which was carrying a large group of passengers, reportedly missed a bridge and fell into the river. The road was known for its numerous sharp turns, which may have contributed to the crash. According to Wosenyeleh Simion, spokesperson for the Sidama regional government, the truck was overloaded, a factor that likely played a key role in the accident.
Casualties and Condition of Survivors
The tragic accident resulted in the deaths of 68 men and 3 women. Five people, who were critically injured, are currently receiving medical treatment at Bona General Hospital. Many of the passengers were returning from a wedding ceremony, and some families have lost multiple members in the disaster, highlighting the extent of the tragedy.
The Wedding Journey That Turned Fatal
Reports from the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) indicate that many of the passengers were traveling to a wedding when the accident occurred. The news has shocked the region, with people mourning the loss of their loved ones.
Poor Road Conditions and Vehicle Maintenance
This deadly incident is not an isolated case in Ethiopia, where road safety is a significant concern. Poor driving standards, overloaded vehicles, and badly maintained roads have led to numerous accidents in the past. In 2018, a similar tragedy struck when a bus carrying students plunged into a ravine, killing 38 people.
The Need for Better Safety Standards
This recent incident has once again raised questions about the safety standards in Ethiopia, particularly regarding road conditions and vehicle maintenance. Experts are calling for better enforcement of traffic laws and improved infrastructure to prevent further loss of life in the future.