Tragic Bus Accident in Iran Claims 28 Lives

A bus overturned in central Iran, resulting in the deaths of at least 28 Pakistani pilgrims. The incident occurred in Yazd province, causing injuries to 23 passengers. Among them, seven are critically injured. The bus was heading to Karbala for the Arbaeen commemoration.

At least 28 Pakistani pilgrims were killed when their bus overturned in central Iran, according to Iranian state media reports cited by Al Jazeera on Wednesday. The tragic incident occurred in Yazd province on Tuesday, leaving 23 people injured.

The bus was en route to the holy city of Karbala in Iraq with 53 passengers aboard. "Unfortunately, 11 women and 17 men lost their lives in this accident. Seven of the injured are in critical condition, while six have been discharged from the hospital," said Ali Malekzadeh, crisis management director general of Yazd, during a broadcast on state TV.

Malekzadeh noted that the injured were part of the group traveling for the Arbaeen commemoration, which marks the 40th day of mourning for Imam Hussein. Last year, approximately 22 million pilgrims visited Karbala for the observance. Iran's poor traffic safety record, with around 17,000 fatalities annually, is a significant concern, attributed to reckless driving, unsafe vehicles, and inadequate emergency services in rural areas.

(With inputs from agencies.)