In one of the most devastating road accidents in recent years, a passenger bus carrying over 70 people crashed through a guard rail and plummeted into a ravine in Guatemala City on Monday, resulting in at least 51 fatalities.

The bus, which had been traveling from San Agustin Acasaguastlan in El Progreso, 90 kilometers northeast of the capital, fell approximately 20 meters (65 feet) into a river contaminated with sewage and debris. Victor Gomez, a spokesperson for the Volunteer Firefighters, confirmed the grim toll, stating, "We have 51 bodies in the provisional morgue."

Rescue operations managed to save ten passengers from the wreckage, who were immediately taken to local hospitals for emergency treatment.

President Bernardo Arevalo responded to the tragedy by declaring a national period of mourning, expressing his profound sorrow and extending condolences to the bereaved families. "Today is a difficult day for the Guatemalan nation," he remarked.

The accident occurred when the bus driver lost control, leading to a collision with several smaller vehicles before breaking through a metal guard rail and tumbling into the ravine, according to local sources.

Investigations into the cause of the crash are underway, with Communications Minister Miguel Angel Diaz noting that the bus was nearly 30 years old but still legally operational. Authorities are probing if overloading or mechanical issues were factors in the disaster.

This incident underscores the persistent road safety issues in Latin America, recalling similar tragedies like the 2018 bus crash in Peru where 52 people died and the 2015 tourist bus accident in Brazil's Santa Catarina state, claiming 54 lives. (ILKHA)