A devastating bus accident in central Iran’s Yazd province has claimed the lives of 28 Pakistani pilgrims and injured 23 others.
The incident occurred on Tuesday night in Dehshir village, Taft County, at around 9:50 p.m. local time.
The bus was en route to the Iran-Iraq border, carrying passengers to attend the Arbaeen ceremonies. Mohammad-Ali Malekzadeh, Director-General of the provincial crisis management department, confirmed the details of the incident.
Of the 23 injured, 14 are in critical condition and receiving treatment in local medical centers. Provincial authorities are working with the Iranian Foreign Ministry to transfer the deceased and injured to Pakistan via plane.
Initial investigations by Iran’s Traffic Police Chief, Seyyed Teymour Hosseini, suggest a technical defect in the bus’ braking system led to the accident. Further investigations are underway.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman, Nasser Kanaani, expressed deep sadness over the incident and assured that relevant organizations are working to continue rescue, service, and treatment operations.
