Tragically, a truck crashed into a river in southern Ethiopia on Sunday, killing at least 71 passengers. The terrible Ethiopian road disaster occurred when the car missed a bridge and plunged into the sea while it was passing through Sidama state. Local authorities have confirmed the number of casualties, and it is thought that most of the deceased were at a wedding party.
“The vehicle fell into the river after missing the bridge, and many of the people onboard were guests at a wedding,” according to a local official.
Could the Accident Have Been Caused by an Overloaded Lorry?
According to local traffic authorities, the truck was overloaded, which is believed to have contributed to the tragedy. The driver may have struggled to retain control due to the extra weight, which led to the deadly collision. “The lorry was overloaded, and that could have caused the incident,” the officer continued.
Authorities are working to collect more information as investigations continue to ascertain the full scope of the factors contributing to the unfortunate Sidama state catastrophe. To stop such road accidents in Ethiopia in the future, local officials have emphasized the significance of safety precautions and the requirement for improved regulation.
Who Was the Tragedy's Victim?
According to the Sidama Police Commission Traffic Prevention and Control Directorate, there were three women and 68 men among the victims. The public was shown the tragic scenario through various photos, some of which featured hazy pictures of the rescue effort.
What Attempts Were Made to Save the Lives of the Victims?
In the Bona area, where the event happened, the state health bureau shared unsettling photos on social media of locals attempting to pull a wrecked car out of the river. Other pictures showed bodies on the ground, some with blue tarpaulins covering them. Many people in the area are mourning due to the tragedy’s emotional impact.
Why Do Traffic Accidents Still Happen in Ethiopia?
The risks on Ethiopian roadways are brought home by this occurrence. Every year, thousands of people are killed in traffic accidents, and many of these fatalities are caused by speeding and a disdain for the law. The frequency of these accidents has alarmed authorities, urging stricter enforcement of traffic safety regulations to save lives.
The Sidama state tragedy emphasizes the urgent need for reforms to enhance road safety and stop similar tragedies in the future, even with ongoing investigations. To guarantee the safety of visitors in Sidama state and beyond, authorities are attempting to address the issues contributing to traffic accidents in Ethiopia.
