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Tragic Bus Accident Claims Lives Near Resende,Portugal
A fatal bus accident occurred early this morning on the A24 motorway near Resende,Portugal,resulting in the deaths of at least four individuals and leaving numerous others injured.the incident, reported around 6:30 AM local time on Saturday, February 10, 2024, involved a bus operated by Rodoviรกria de Lisboa, a major transportation company in Portugal.
Authorities indicate the bus was traveling from Lisbon to Porto when it reportedly left the roadway and collided with a guardrail before overturning. The exact cause of the accident is currently under inquiry by the Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), Portugal’s national republican guard, with preliminary assessments focusing on potential factors such as driver fatigue, adverse weather conditions, or mechanical failure. The stretch of the A24 near Resende is known for its winding terrain and can be susceptible to fog, particularly during the winter months.
Emergency services, including firefighters from Porto and Vila Real, and medical personnel from the Hospital de Proximidade de Lamego, were dispatched to the scene. At least 30 individuals sustained injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Injured passengers were transported to hospitals in Lamego, Porto (Hospital de Santo Antรณnio), and Vila Real for treatment. The A24 motorway was fully closed in both directions for several hours to facilitate rescue operations and accident investigation, causing significant traffic disruptions.
Rodoviรกria de Lisboa has confirmed the incident and stated they are cooperating fully with the authorities. The company has initiated its own internal investigation and is providing support to the families of the victims. A crisis hotline has been established at +351 21 319 2000 for relatives seeking data about passengers on board the bus.
This accident highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety on Portuguese motorways.Portugal’s road network, while generally well-maintained, experiences a significant volume of traffic, particularly during peak tourist seasons. The country recorded 313 road fatalities in 2023, according to the National Road Safety Authority (Autoridade Nacional de Seguranรงa Rodoviรกria – ANSR), representing a slight increase compared to the previous year. The ANSR has recently increased its focus on enforcing speed limits and combating distracted driving.
Resende, a municipality in the Vila Real district, is a popular destination for outdoor activities, including hiking and water sports on the nearby Douro River. The incident has cast a shadow over the region, impacting both residents and the tourism industry.The Portuguese government has expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and pledged to provide all necessary assistance.
The investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing, and further details are expected to be released by the GNR in the coming days. This event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the potential consequences of preventable accidents.
