At least 71 people died in Ethiopia when a truck carrying wedding guests plunged into a river. The tragic incident occurred in the Sidama region of the Bona district. According to the regional government’s spokesperson, Wosenyeleh Simion, 68 males and 3 females were confirmed dead, with five others reported to be in critical condition. The victims were on their way to or returning from a wedding ceremony.
Ethiopia Truck Accident Details
The accident happened after the truck missed a bridge and fell into the river, with the vehicle reportedly overloaded. The road where the incident took place is known for its sharp bends, which may have contributed to the accident. The Sidama regional communication bureau initially reported the death toll as 60 but later updated it to 71. The truck, which had many passengers, was carrying people from different families, some of whom lost multiple members in the crash.
Traffic police in the region believe the overloading of the truck played a significant role in the fatal crash. The incident highlights the ongoing concerns about road safety in Ethiopia, where poor driving standards and badly maintained vehicles contribute to frequent deadly accidents.
History of Deadly Traffic Accidents in Ethiopia
Fatal traffic accidents are not uncommon in Ethiopia, a country that has faced significant road safety challenges. In 2018, a bus accident in Ethiopia’s northern mountainous region killed 38 people, mostly students. The government has struggled to address the underlying issues of traffic accidents, including poor infrastructure, vehicle maintenance, and unsafe driving practices. Despite efforts to improve the situation, such incidents continue to claim lives across the country.