Bus overturns in Iran, killing at least 15 people

In southern Iran, a tragic accident involving a bus has resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries. The incident, which took place in the vicinity of Shiraz city, the capital of Fars province, has been reported by state media. According to officials, 15 individuals have lost their lives and 27 others have sustained injuries as a result of the bus overturning. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, with 11 ambulances and two ambulance buses dispatched to assist the injured. The high casualty rate on Iranian roads has long been a concern, with nearly 17,000 deaths reported annually due to road accidents, making Iran one of the leading countries globally for such incidents. Experts attribute this alarming statistic to several factors including the neglect of safety protocols, the prevalence of old vehicles, and inadequate emergency response capabilities. Authorities have struggled to implement effective measures to address these road safety issues despite being aware of the gravity of the situation. The Iranian government has faced ongoing pressure to improve road safety standards and to provide better emergency services to handle situations like this bus crash more efficiently and effectively. As investigations continue into the exact cause of the accident, this incident highlights the urgent need for reforms in safety regulations and transport infrastructure to prevent future tragedies.