Senegal: 38 killed, more than 85 injured in bus accident, govt declares national mourning of 3 days

As many as38people died and 87 were injured in one of the deadliest road accidentswhen two buses collided near Kaffrine in central Senegal on Sunday (January8), afire brigade official in Senegal told the news agency AFP.

Colonel Cheikh Fall, who is in charge of operations for Senegal's National Fire Brigade, said, "It was a serious accident. There were 125 passengers in both the buses, of whom 38 have died."

The official also told the news agency that the tragic accident took place on the No. 1 national road at 3.15am local time (0315 GMT) Sunday morning.

Add WION as a Preferred Source

He added that all the victims were evacuated and rushed to a Kaffrine hospital and medical centre after the accident.

He mentioned that the wreckage and demolished buses have since been cleared and normal traffic has resumed on the stretch.

Senegal President Macky Sallhas declared a national mourning of three days, starting Monday (January 9). The head of the state on his Twitter account wrote: "Following today's serious accident in Gniby, I have decided on a three-day national mourning from January 9."

"An interministerial council will be held on the same date to take firm measures on road safety and public passenger transport," he said.

"I am deeply saddened by this tragic road accident and I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wish a speedy recovery to the injured," Sall further added.

Road accidents are common in Senegal, and take place mostly because of driving without discipline, poor roads and decrepit vehicles, say experts, adding that this, however, is one of the heaviest death tolls from a single incident in recent years.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.