Tragic Bus Collision Claims 37 Lives in Bolivia

A devastating bus crash in Bolivia has left 37 people dead and dozens injured, prompting discussions on road safety during tourism peaks.

At least 37 individuals tragically lost their lives and 30 others sustained injuries after two passenger buses collided early Saturday morning near the south-western city of Uyuni, according to police reports. The incident occurred approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the city.

One of the drivers is currently receiving intensive care, while the other is reported to be in stable condition, stated police commander Wilson Flores. Images circulated in Bolivia's media depict a severely damaged bus, with its bodywork torn apart and personal belongings scattered along the roadside.

Local sources indicate that the collision took place on the route connecting Uyuni and Colchani, reportedly due to a "lane invasion." One of the buses was en route to Oruro, where the Oruro Carnival—one of Latin America's largest celebrations—is currently occurring.

By 10:00 local time (14:00 GMT), the vehicles had been cleared from the site, and those injured were transported to healthcare facilities in Oruro and Potosí. Names of the deceased have not yet been released, and assessments of the injured victims' conditions are still ongoing.

In a statement, Cdr. Flores revealed that police are currently awaiting the results of alcohol tests conducted on the drivers involved. This crash adds to a grim pattern of road traffic fatalities in Bolivia; earlier this year, a similar incident in February led to over 30 deaths when a bus plunged into a ravine. Additionally, in January, another road accident in the same region resulted in 19 fatalities.

According to government statistics, Bolivia has a staggering average of 1,400 road accident-related deaths annually, reflecting the urgent need for improved safety measures in this nation of approximately 12 million residents.