A bus carrying Pakistani pilgrims overturned in central Iran late Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of 28 passengers and injuring 23 others, according to state media. The accident occurred in Yazd Province and was attributed to a technical defect in the bus’s braking system, as per initial findings from the Iranian traffic police.
Among the deceased were 11 women and 17 men, officials reported. Of the injured, seven are in critical condition, while six have since been discharged from the hospital, the crisis management director for Yazd Province told state television.
Pakistani consular officials in Iran have been dispatched to Yazd to assist with the aftermath of the tragedy, the official added.
The incident comes as millions of Shiite Muslims are undertaking the Arbaeen pilgrimage to Karbala in Iraq. The pilgrimage commemorates the 40th day of mourning for Imam Hussein, a revered figure in Shiite Islam and the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.
