TEHRAN: At least 10 people were killed as a minibus carrying mountaineers veered off the road and plunged into a ravine in Iran here on Saturday. The incident occurred near the city of Varzaghan, situated in East Azerbaijan province.
The ill-fated minibus was en route to a tourist village nestled within the picturesque mountainous region when disaster struck. On Friday, the vehicle overturned and plummeted into a ravine, leaving behind a scene of devastation and grief. The exact cause of the accident remains undetermined.
Vahid Shadinia, spokesperson for the provincial emergency services, conveyed the tragic details of the incident. “Ten people, including the driver, lost their lives, and eight individuals sustained injuries,” Shadinia stated. He emphasized that seat belts could have played a critical role in mitigating the loss of life. “If the seat belts had been buckled, the number of victims would have been lower,” he remarked.
Road Accidents in Iran
Despite Iran’s generally well-maintained roads, the country contends with one of the world’s highest traffic fatality rates. Contributing factors include not only the impact of international sanctions on vehicle upkeep but also prevalent poor driving habits. The accident underscores the urgent need to address road safety measures and instill responsible driving practices.
Iran’s diverse and scenic terrain often lures adventurers and mountaineers seeking to explore its natural beauty. However, such incidents serve as a sobering reminder of the potential risks posed by the country’s roads, especially in regions characterized by steep landscapes.
