Massive Bus Crash in Guatemala City Claims Dozens of Lives
Guatemala City (Reuters) – A devastating bus crash in Guatemala City early Monday morning has left at least 51 people dead and several others trapped after the vehicle veered off a highway bridge and plunged into a polluted ravine.
The overcrowded bus was traveling from San Agustín Acasaguastlán to the capital when it fell approximately 20 meters (65 feet) from Puente Belice, a crucial highway bridge connecting key routes into Guatemala City.
Death Toll and Rescue Efforts
According to Carlos Hernández, a spokesperson for the city’s fire department, the tragedy has claimed the lives of 36 men and 15 women, whose bodies have been transported to a temporary morgue set up for the victims. Survivors are still being rescued from the wreckage, as emergency crews work tirelessly at the accident site.
Images shared by the fire department on social media revealed the horrific scene: the bus partially submerged in wastewater, surrounded by lifeless bodies.
National Mourning Declared
In response to the tragedy, Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo declared three days of national mourning and mobilized the army and disaster response teams to assist in relief efforts.
“I stand in solidarity with the families of the victims who today woke up to heartbreaking news. Their pain is my pain,” Arévalo expressed on social media.
Highway Safety Concerns
Puente Belice is known for its heavy traffic and aging infrastructure. Authorities are now investigating the cause of the accident, considering factors such as driver error, mechanical failure, or poor road conditions.
This disaster has reignited concerns over road safety in Guatemala, where overloaded buses and lack of proper maintenance frequently lead to fatal accidents.
Support for the Victims
Local hospitals are treating survivors, and relief organizations are providing aid to grieving families. The Guatemalan government has urged citizens to donate blood and provide assistance for those affected.
Conclusion
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of Guatemala’s urgent need for improved road safety regulations. As the nation mourns, authorities must take decisive action to prevent such devastating accidents in the future.
Tags:
#GuatemalaBusCrash #PuenteBelice #GuatemalaNews #RoadSafety #BreakingNews #Tragedy.
Disclaimer: Above information have been compiled from various newspapers and is being published for information purpose only.
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