Two devastating bus accidents in central Afghanistan have resulted in the tragic loss of at least 50 lives, with many others injured. These incidents occurred on the same highway in Ghazni province, which connects the capital, Kabul, to the southern city of Kandahar late Wednesday. Hamidullah Nisar, the provincial head of information and culture, provided updates on the situation via social media on Thursday.
The first incident involved a passenger bus colliding with a fuel tanker near Shahbaz village, while the second occurred when another bus struck a truck in the Andar district of Ghazni. The Taliban’s chief government spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, reported the highest death toll at 52, with injuries ranging from 65 to as many as 76 according to other officials.
Mujahid expressed his condolences, stating that the fatalities and injuries caused by these accidents have brought profound sadness and concern to the government. He urged relevant authorities to investigate these tragic events, identify their causes, and implement necessary measures to prevent future occurrences. This call for action underscores the commitment to road safety amid ongoing challenges in infrastructure.
Authorities are actively addressing the situation, with injured passengers receiving medical care in hospitals in Ghazni. Those in critical condition have been transferred to facilities in Kabul for more extensive treatment. The casualties include women and children, highlighting the profound impact of these accidents on the community.
Traffic accidents are regrettably common in Afghanistan, largely due to a combination of substandard road conditions exacerbated by decades of conflict, reckless driving behaviors, and insufficient regulatory oversight. Previous incidents this year, including a March collision that claimed over 20 lives, reflect ongoing public safety challenges on Afghan highways.
While the plight of road safety remains a pressing issue, it is crucial to recognize the resilience and solidarity among Afghan communities as they navigate such tragedies. The individuals and families affected are not alone; local and national support networks are mobilizing to provide assistance during this difficult time.
As Afghanistan continues its journey towards stability, improving road safety standards and infrastructure will be essential in safeguarding against such heartbreaking events in the future.
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