RABAT: At least 24 people were killed in a devastating road accident in the central province of Azilal, Morocco here on Sunday. The incident occurred when a minibus, transporting passengers to a weekly market in the town of Demnate, overturned on a bend, leaving a trail of destruction.
The accident marks one of the worst road accidents in the country’s history, prompting authorities to launch an investigation into the incident.
Morocco has been grappling with frequent road accidents, with the latest incident being a grim reminder of the dangers on its roadways. In March, another tragic accident claimed the lives of 11 individuals, primarily agricultural workers, when their minibus crashed into a tree in the rural town of Brachoua.
Frequent Road Accidents in Morocco
The prevalence of road accidents is not unique to Morocco but extends to other North African countries. The use of coaches and minibuses by many citizens, especially in rural areas, contributes to the high number of accidents. The lack of adequate safety measures and road conditions in certain regions further exacerbate the risks faced by commuters.
The National Road Safety Agency in Morocco has reported an average of 3,500 road deaths and 12,000 injuries annually, equivalent to around 10 deaths per day. However, the figure for last year was slightly lower, at around 3,200 casualties. In response to the alarming statistics, authorities have set a goal to halve the mortality rate by 2026, following a tragic bus accident in 2012 that claimed the lives of 42 people, the deadliest in the country’s history.
The call for improved road safety measures and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations becomes even more urgent. Addressing the root causes of road accidents and investing in infrastructure and safety initiatives are crucial steps to prevent future tragedies on Morocco’s roadways.
