Bus Accident Near Machu Picchu Injures Tourists
A tragic bus accident occurred near the iconic Inca site of Machu Picchu in Peru, injuring at least 30 tourists, including six Italians and several Mexicans. The bus, carrying 20 passengers, lost control while descending from the ancient citadel, plunging approximately 15 meters (50 feet) off a zigzagging mountain road that connects Machu Picchu with the nearby town of Aguas Calientes. Local police reported that the accident took place around 11:15 a.m. local time on Monday, and all injured individuals were promptly transported to health facilities in Cusco.
Details of the Incident
Witnesses indicated that the driver lost sight of the road due to fog, compounded by rock falls from recent rains. The Mexican Foreign Ministry confirmed that at least four Mexican nationals sustained serious injuries, including multiple fractures. Fortunately, there were no fatalities reported. The injured tourists, who also included Chileans, Guatemalans, Japanese, and Chinese, were stabilized at the I-2 Machupicchu Medical Center before being discharged. The Mexican government is actively monitoring the situation and providing assistance to those affected.
Response and Investigation
The Peruvian police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. The vehicle involved, owned by Consettur Machupicchu SAC, was on the Hiram Bingham route, a popular path for tourists visiting the historical site. Alicia Bárcena, the Mexican Foreign Minister, expressed her condolences on social media, emphasizing that the embassy in Lima is coordinating with local authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the injured. The incident highlights the challenges of navigating the mountainous terrain that leads to one of the world's most renowned archaeological sites.
