In a devastating incident, a bus carrying a wedding party of 27 passengers fell into the Indus River in Pakistan, leaving 14 confirmed dead and 12 others missing. The tragedy occurred after the driver, reportedly speeding, lost control of the vehicle, sending it off the road and into the river’s swift currents. Only one passenger has been rescued alive, albeit with injuries, as local authorities continue to search for those still unaccounted for.
The accident took place near the city of Skardu in northern Pakistan, an area known for its challenging terrain and winding roads. Local officials report that the driver’s excessive speed was the likely cause of the crash, with witnesses stating that the bus veered off the road after failing to navigate a sharp turn. Rescue efforts are being conducted by local authorities and emergency response teams, who are facing difficulties due to the river’s strong current and low visibility.
“We are doing everything in our power to recover the missing and provide aid to the affected families,” said Asif Khan, a senior official with the local disaster management authority. “This is a tragic reminder of the importance of road safety and the risks of high speeds on these dangerous roads.”
The lone survivor, whose identity has not been disclosed, was pulled from the water by local villagers who arrived at the scene soon after the accident. The survivor is currently receiving treatment at a nearby hospital and is expected to recover.
The bus accident has plunged the local community into mourning, with families of the victims gathering along the river’s edge as rescue operations continue. The wedding celebration, which was meant to be a joyous occasion, has now turned into a heart-wrenching tragedy, and condolences are pouring in from across the region.
This incident follows a recent string of fatal bus crashes in Pakistan. In August, two separate bus accidents claimed at least 34 lives, underscoring a worrying trend of road safety issues in the country. Poor road conditions, reckless driving, and inadequate enforcement of traffic regulations contribute to Pakistan’s high rate of road accidents, which claim thousands of lives each year.
The government has pledged to investigate the incident thoroughly and implement stricter road safety measures, particularly in mountainous regions where accidents are more common. Officials are calling for better road maintenance, stricter speed limits, and increased training for drivers navigating hazardous routes.
Local leaders and community activists are urging immediate action to improve transportation safety. “This is a preventable tragedy,” said Malik Rahman, a Skardu resident and road safety advocate. “We have lost too many lives on these roads. It’s time for serious reforms to protect our people and prevent these accidents.”
The victims’ families are now left grappling with the loss of their loved ones, turning a day of celebration into a day of profound sorrow. The government has offered condolences and pledged financial support for the families affected by the accident, though many are calling for broader changes to prevent further tragedies.
As Pakistan grapples with yet another heartbreaking incident on its roads, the need for improved safety standards and driver accountability becomes increasingly urgent. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by travelers and the critical importance of addressing the nation’s road safety challenges.
