A devastating bus accident on the island of Fogo in Cabo Verde has claimed the lives of 25 people, primarily children and teenagers. The incident occurred on September 5, and an investigation team is working to determine the causes of the crash. The bus was traveling on the Chã das Caldeiras/Campanas de Cima route when the accident happened. According to authorities, a distinct team is investigating the accident.
The Minister of Infrastructure, Carlos Tavares, visited the accident site and provided an update on the preliminary findings. He stated that the road where the accident occurred was built between 2019 and 2024 and has adequate pavement conditions. However, problems with vertical signage were identified. Tavares noted that the road is virtually without vertical signage, which is a concerning situation.
Minister Tavares revealed that around 60% or more of the vertical signage initially planned for the road had been removed. This lack of signage may have contributed to the accident. The investigation team is working to determine the exact causes of the crash. Tavares emphasized that the government will prioritize road safety in the future, ensuring that all public works meet adequate safety standards.
In response to the accident, the government has pledged to improve road safety across the country. Tavares assured that no road will be officially accepted without proper vertical signage and necessary safety structures. This requirement will also apply to new road construction projects, which must meet strict safety standards before being opened to the public.
The government will conduct a thorough assessment of road conditions on the island of Fogo and other islands to identify areas that require intervention. The goal is to enhance road safety and prevent similar accidents in the future. Additionally, the maintenance of the road network will be improved, particularly on the island of Fogo.
Minister Tavares emphasized that road safety will be a fundamental requirement for all public works projects. The government will not compromise on safety, and all roads must meet adequate safety standards before being opened to the public. This commitment aims to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure safer roads for all users.
The investigation into the bus accident is ongoing, and the government is working to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The community is still reeling from the tragic loss of life, and authorities are working to provide support to the affected families. The incident has highlighted the importance of prioritizing road safety in Cabo Verde.
Key points
- The preliminary investigation into the bus accident cites problems with vertical signage on the road as a contributing factor.
- The government has pledged to improve road safety across the country, prioritizing proper signage and safety structures.
- The incident has resulted in 25 fatalities, primarily children and teenagers, and has prompted a comprehensive review of road safety in Cabo Verde.
