Bolivia is mourning one of its deadliest road accidents of the year after a passenger bus careened off a mountain highway and plunged nearly 800 meters into a ravine. The crash occurred on the route between the cities of Potosí and Oruro, a region known for its winding roads and steep cliffs. According to authorities, at least 30 people were killed and 15 others were injured in the devastating accident. Preliminary investigations suggest the driver may have lost control of the bus due to speeding while navigating a sharp curve. Witnesses reported that the vehicle veered across the lane before tumbling down the mountainside. Rescue teams, including firefighters and local police, worked for hours to reach survivors trapped in the wreckage, a difficult task given the depth and rugged terrain of the ravine.

The injured passengers were transported to hospitals in both Potosí and Oruro, where several remain in critical condition. Officials have not yet released the identities of the victims but confirmed that both adults and children were among the dead.

Road safety has long been a concern in Bolivia, where narrow mountain roads, aging vehicles, and reckless driving frequently contribute to deadly accidents.

Authorities emphasized that this tragedy underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of speed limits and vehicle inspections.

President Luis Arce expressed condolences to the families of the victims, calling the incident a “national tragedy” and pledging government support for survivors and relatives of those lost. Local communities have begun organizing vigils to honor the dead and provide comfort to grieving families.

As investigations continue, officials hope this disaster will renew efforts to improve road safety measures and prevent future tragedies on Bolivia’s treacherous mountain highways.