IRAN (WSN) – A bus carrying Pakistani pilgrims overturned in central Iran, resulting in at least 35 deaths and 18 injuries, according to state media reports on Wednesday.
There was initial confusion regarding the death toll, with some sources initially reporting 28 fatalities. The bus, which was transporting 53 pilgrims, crashed near the Taftan-Dehshir checkpoint and caught fire after overturning.
The incident occurred late Tuesday in Yazd province. Preliminary investigations by Iranian traffic police suggest that a technical fault in the bus’s braking system was the cause of the accident.
“Unfortunately, among the deceased were 11 women. Seven of the injured are in critical condition, while six have been discharged from the hospital,” said the crisis management director general of Yazd province in a statement to state TV.
The Pakistani consular services in Iran have been asked to visit Yazd to assist with the aftermath of the accident.
Currently, millions of Shi’ite Muslims are participating in the Arbaeen pilgrimage in Karbala, Iraq, commemorating the 40th day of mourning following the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA).
Reports from Pakistan indicate that the victims were from Larkana, Ghotki, and other cities in Sindh.
CONDOLENCES
President Asif Ali Zardari has expressed sorrow over the tragedy and instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support the injured and expedite the return of the deceased to Pakistan.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has also conveyed her condolences over the incident.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Omar Ayub has expressed sympathy and offered prayers for the swift recovery of the injured pilgrims.
