DUBAI 7 June 2019: Seventeen people have died and five were seriously injured in a tragic bus accident at around 6 pm in Dubai.
The accident took place on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, near Rashidiya exit to Dubai Metro station. The bus had collided with the guide rails on the side of the road. No other vehicle was involved.
The dead and injured have been transferred to Rashid Hospital in Dubai.
The bus was operated on Route 201 between Oman and Dubai by Omani transport firm, Mwasalat. The service has been suspended until further notice.
“Mwasalat family expresses its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured,” said a statement.
Investigation into the accident has started in cooperation with Dubai Police and Dubai’s Roads & Transport Authority.
The Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, Major General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, has called on drivers to pay attention while driving. “Sometimes a minor error or negligence during driving leads to serious consequences, such as this evening, which resulted in 17 deaths of different nationalities.
“The General Directorate of Dubai Police extends its sincere condolences to the families of the deceased in the unfortunate incident,” said a police statement.
Driver Injured
The bus driver, of Omani nationality and about 50 years of age, suffered moderate injuries and continues to receive the treatment at Rashid Hospital.
The number of dead increased to 17 after an unidentified woman who was among the injured, died in the hospital.
According to Dubai Police, the accident took place at 5:40 pm yesterday. The bus, with Omani number plates, was carrying 31 passengers on board.
Multiple-car Accident
Dubai did not have an easy traffic days as Al Ittihad Road coming in from Sharjah was clogged following a crash involving multiple vehicles.
Another accident was reported on Al Rashidiyah Roaad coming from Sharjah towards Metro Station. The accident resulted in a traffic jam.
