TEHRAN (Agencies): A bus carrying Pakistani pilgrims has overturned in central Iran, killing 28 passengers and injuring 23 others, state media reported on Wednesday. Reuters said that the accident took place late on Tuesday in the central Iranian province of Yazd and was caused by a technical defect in the bus braking system, according to preliminary investigations made by the Iranian traffic police.
“Unfortunately, 11 women and 17 men lost their lives in this accident,” the crisis management director general of Yazd province told state TV. “Seven of the injured people are in critical condition and six injured people have now left the hospital.”
Pakistan’s consular service staff in Iran have been invited to Yazd province to follow up on the accident, the official added.
“We express our sincere sympathy to the neighbouring government of Pakistan and the bereaved families,” Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nasser Kanaani posted on X. “Relevant authorities in Iran are actively pursuing relief and treatment services.”
Millions of Shia Muslims are currently partaking in the Arbaeen pilgrimage in Iraq’s Karbala Governorate. The event marks the 40th day of mourning following the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein Bin Ali, a central figure in Shia Islam and the grandson of Prophet Muhammad.