A bus accident in Egypt's South Sinai province has left 16 people dead and 28 injured, according to a statement from the country's Ministry of Health and Population.
The Accident
The bus overturned on Wednesday, 2nd September, on the road connecting the popular tourist towns of Dahab and Nuweiba along South Sinai's eastern coast. The Ministry of Health and Population confirmed the death toll of 16 in its statement on the incident.
28 Injured, Some in Critical Condition
Twenty-eight people were injured in the crash. Twenty ambulances were dispatched to the scene immediately, and the injured were given first aid before being taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Some of the injured are reported to be in a critical condition. Health Minister Khaled Abdel-Ghaffar has directed relevant teams to remain fully prepared and instructed officials to provide all necessary emergency and medical services to those affected. The ministry said medical teams were working swiftly and efficiently, and that the situation was being closely monitored.
What Caused the Crash
According to local media reports, preliminary investigations suggest the bus driver was travelling at high speed and lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn. The investigation into the incident is still ongoing.
A Recurring Problem
Accidents of this kind are common in Egypt. Driver error, poor road infrastructure, weak law enforcement, lax compliance with traffic rules and lapses in road safety are frequently cited as contributing factors behind such road accidents in the country.