On the evening of December 15, 2024, a devastating bus accident occurred in Khor Fakkan, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE), resulting in the deaths of nine individuals and injuries to 73 others. The bus, carrying 83 workers of various Asian and Arab nationalities, overturned near the Wadi Washi roundabout at the city’s entrance. Preliminary investigations suggest that a brake failure led to the driver losing control of the vehicle.
Details of the Incident
The bus was transporting workers employed by a company based in Ajman. They had traveled to Ajman on their day off to visit the company headquarters and purchase food items. The accident occurred around 8:00 PM as they were returning to Khor Fakkan. Emergency services, including Sharjah Police, civil defense, and emergency medical teams, responded promptly to the scene. The injured were administered first aid and transported to nearby hospitals for further treatment.
Response and Medical Efforts
The Khor Fakkan Hospital, located just minutes from the crash site, was overwhelmed by the number of casualties. Hospital staff, including those on leave, were called back to assist in treating the injured. The hospital opened emergency and quarantine wings to accommodate the patients. Some victims with severe injuries were transferred to Khalifa Hospital in Fujairah for specialized care.
Investigation and Findings
Sharjah Police have initiated an investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings indicate that the bus’s brake failure caused the driver to lose control, leading to the overturning of the vehicle. The authorities are working to identify the nationalities of the deceased and are coordinating with consular services for the repatriation of the bodies.
Safety Concerns and Recommendations
This tragic incident highlights the critical importance of regular vehicle maintenance and adherence to safety standards. Sharjah Police have emphasized the need for drivers to conduct routine checks and maintenance of their vehicles, especially before long journeys. They also urge motorists to exercise caution on curved roads and intersections and to strictly follow speed limits, particularly in tunnels, to prevent such accidents in the future.
Community Impact
The accident has deeply affected the local community, especially the families of the victims. Social workers have been providing support to the injured and the families of the deceased. The company involved has expressed condolences and is assisting in the repatriation process. The incident has also raised concerns about the safety of workers’ transportation in the region, prompting discussions on improving safety measures and regulations.
Conclusion
The Khor Fakkan bus accident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety and vehicle maintenance. The loss of nine lives and the injuries sustained by 73 individuals underscore the need for stringent safety protocols and regular inspections to prevent such tragedies in the future. The community continues to mourn the victims, and efforts are underway to support the affected families and ensure the safe return of the deceased to their home countries.
For more detailed coverage and updates on this incident, please refer to the following sources:
- Nine killed and 73 injured as bus overturns in Sharjah’s Khor Fakkan area
- Bus carrying 83 passengers, including Indians, overturns in UAE
- UAE: 9 killed, 73 rescued after bus overturns in Sharjah’s Khorfakkan
- Nine killed, 73 others rescued in Khorfakkan bus accident
- 9 Killed and 73 Rescued After Overturn in UAE
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