Thirty four people have died in Tharaka Nithi county, Eastern region of Kenya after a 43 passengers bus veered off a bridge and plunged into a river valley.
The accident occurred yesterday, on Sunday evening, July 25, at Nithi bridge, which for many years has been marked as black spot because it has claimed countless lives.
The bus belonged to one of the popular travelling companies in the country, Modern Coast Company. It was travelling from Meru to Mombasa, but unfortunately the trip was cut short after the bus veered off the Nithi Bridge and fell into the river 40 metres below (131 feet).
Local media reports and Kenya transport regulator state so far 34 people have lost their lives from the accident while others have severe injuries.
Speaking with Kenya television NTV, Tharaka Nithi County Commissioner Nobert Komora said;
Up to now, we have lost 14 women, 18 men, and 2 young girls, so the total deaths are 34. We have rescued 11 who are undergoing treatment in hospital.
Investigations show the bus brakes may have failed, making it difficult for the driver to properly turn on a sharp bend at the Nithi bridge.
The National Transport and Safety Authority, which regulates Kenya’s transport, has ordered all vehicles belonging to Modern Coast to suspend their operations for more investigations.
May the departed souls rest in peace and quick recovery to the survivors.
