GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala (AP) – A tragic accident occurred on Friday night when an intermunicipal bus lost control and plunged into a deep ravine near the town of Totonicapan, resulting in the deaths of 15 passengers and injuring at least 15 others. In response to this disaster, officials announced a three-day period of national mourning.
The incident unfolded along the Interamerican Road, a route frequently traveled by public transportation. Emergency rescue workers faced significant challenges, as it took more than two hours to recover the deceased from the crash site and to assist the injured. As of the latest reports, 15 individuals remain hospitalized due to varying degrees of injuries sustained in the accident.
President Bernardo Arevalo expressed his deep sorrow over the tragedy through a statement on social media. He assured the public that the government is actively coordinating necessary actions to support those affected by the crash and to manage the aftermath of this difficult situation.
Road accidents have become a distressing norm in Guatemala, a country characterized by its mountainous terrain and inadequate enforcement of transportation regulations. Many connections between towns and cities are made via narrow two-lane roads, which can be treacherous and lead to severe accidents.
Recent data from the National Transportation Safety Observatory, a government agency, reveals alarming statistics regarding public transportation safety. As of October 2023, there were 446 public transportation vehicles involved in accidents within the nation, leading to 111 fatalities and injuring more than 600 individuals. This information highlights the ongoing issues surrounding transportation safety in Guatemala and underlines the urgency for improved regulations and road safety measures.
The impact of this most recent tragedy resonates deeply within the community, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to ensure the safety of passengers traveling on the country's roads. The government’s efforts to respond to this incident will be closely monitored as it navigates the challenges of enhancing public safety.
