In response to a tragic traffic incident in Basra’s Al-Hartha district, relatives of the victims organized a significant night-time protest on Tuesday evening.
Beginning at the site of the accident in the al-Mashan area, the procession proceeded towards the qaymaqam’s office in the Al-Majidiya area, demanding the removal of Nadheer Al-Shawi, the district’s qaymaqam, and the installation of pedestrian bridges to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
The incident, which occurred as students were leaving Zaynab Primary School in Al-Hartha, claimed the lives of at least six students and left 14 others injured.
Viral footage captured the harrowing aftermath, depicting children’s textbooks scattered amidst the remains of the victims.
According to preliminary reports, the driver lost control of the truck due to brake failure, as stated in an official statement.
Road accidents have been a persistent issue in Iraq, with more than 4,900 lives lost in such incidents in 2022 alone, averaging 13 deaths per day, according to data from the health ministry.
The country’s infrastructure, including roads and bridges, has suffered from neglect and corruption, exacerbated by ongoing conflict.
Authorities often attribute accidents to drivers flouting speed limits, using mobile phones while driving, and the consumption of drugs and alcohol.
