Tragic Accident in Ethiopia Claims 71 Lives as Overloaded Truck Plunges Into River

A horrifying road accident in southern Ethiopia has resulted in the deaths of at least 71 people after an overloaded truck fell into a river in Sidama state. Authorities report survivors are receiving medical care, while investigations continue into the incident's cause.

A devastating traffic accident in southern Ethiopia has claimed the lives of at least 71 individuals after a truck, heavily loaded with passengers, careened into a river in Sidama state, about 300 kilometers south of Addis Ababa. This was confirmed by local authorities, as reported by Al Jazeera.

According to a Facebook post by the Sidama Police Commission Traffic Prevention and Control Directorate, the fatalities include 68 males and three females. Chief Inspector Daniel Sankura stated that the death toll had been initially reported as 60 by the regional communication bureau, with survivors receiving treatment at Bona General Hospital.

The Sidama Regional Health Bureau shared images capturing the grim aftermath, illustrating the partially submerged vehicle and a community rallying to pull it from the water. Further pictures reveal victims lying on the ground, some shrouded in blue tarps.

The Health Bureau expressed profound condolences to the victims' families and promised further updates. The accident occurred around 5:30 pm local time on Sunday, with initial reports suggesting the truck's overloading contributed to the tragedy. The exact count of those onboard remains undisclosed.

In the broader context, road accidents are not uncommon in Ethiopia, a nation grappling with poorly maintained roads. Previous incidents include a 2018 crash that killed 38, primarily students, when a bus plummeted into a northern ravine.

(With inputs from agencies.)