A tragic accident occurred when a bus carrying Pakistani Pilgrims overturned in Yazd, Iran, killing over 32 passengers. The bus was part of a convoy transporting 51 Shia pilgrims and two drivers from regions like Larkana, Khairpur Mirs, and Kandhkot in Pakistan.
Local emergency official Muhammad Ali Malekzadeh reported that 23 others were injured, 14 of them seriously, according to IRNA. Convoy leader Syed Athar Shah Shamsi stated that the accident happened due to a suspected brake failure, causing the bus to crash and catch fire. Rescue operations are ongoing, and the death toll may rise, with many survivors in critical condition.
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Among the victims, 10 were from Khairpur Mirs, six from Kandhkot, and the rest from Larkana. The convoy included two buses; one was delayed at the Pakistan-Iran border during Ramadan due to visa issues, according to Shamsi.
The pilgrims were en route to Iraq to observe Arbaeen, the chehlum of the Karbala martyrs, an event that draws millions to Karbala annually. President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, offering prayers for the deceased and instructing the Foreign Ministry to assist in repatriating the bodies and helping the injured.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also expressed profound grief, extending condolences to the families and wishing a speedy recovery for the injured. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz shared her condolences and assured the bereaved families of the Punjab government’s support during this difficult time.
