WASHUK, PAKISTAN – A speeding passenger bus plunged into a rocky ravine in southwest Pakistan early Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of at least 28 people and injuring 20 others, according to local officials.
The tragic accident occurred in Washuk town as the bus was en route from Turbat to Quetta, the capital of Baluchistan province. Local police officer Asghar Ali reported that the driver lost control of the vehicle, leading to a catastrophic fall. Authorities are currently gathering details from the injured survivors to piece together the events leading up to the crash.
Ismail Mengal, a government administrator in Washuk, confirmed that the bus driver was among those who perished. Mengal noted that the cause of the crash remains under investigation, with officers working diligently to uncover any contributing factors.
Rescue teams and police swiftly responded to the scene, providing immediate medical assistance to the injured passengers. The deceased and critically injured were transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment. Local media images depicted the bus wreckage lying at the bottom of the ravine, highlighting the severity of the incident.
In response to the tragedy, Baluchistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti expressed his condolences and directed that the best possible medical care be provided to the injured. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also issued statements expressing their sorrow over the loss of lives.
This devastating accident comes just three days after a deadly collision in Multan, in which 13 family members were killed. Road accidents in Pakistan are frequently attributed to poor adherence to traffic rules and substandard road conditions, particularly in rugged regions.