Passengers aboard a 70-seater bus owned by the Vatican Express travel agency are counting their blessings after a harrowing accident that could have turned deadly.
The incident happened on the night of January 4, 2024, when the bus, en route to Douala, tumbled down La Falais in Dschang, West Region, raising questions about highway safety and vehicle conditions.
“It’s a miracle that we are alive,” said one of the passengers who experienced the frightening descent down the Dschang hill.
The bus, operated by the Bamenda-based travel agency, got entangled with a rock, preventing it from plummeting further into the valley.
Fortunately, no lives were lost, according to eyewitnesses.
However, approximately three people sustained serious injuries and were rushed to the hospital.
Among the injured was a woman scheduled for a flight on the same day.
Despite the severity of the incident, passengers with minor injuries continued their journey to Douala.
“I managed to continue the trip, though I am feeling pains in my head,” said one passenger who experienced the traumatic event.
Passengers revealed that there were signs of concern even before the journey bagan.
The bus, they claimed, exhibited worrisome conditions during its departure from Bamenda.
“When we saw how the bus managed to navigate the Bamenda station hill, we were really scared and questioned the driver if this bus will make it to Douala,” recounted a passenger.
The accident once again highlights the precarious state of vehicles traversing Cameroon’s highways, with issues of overloading and worn-out conditions frequently reported.
“At times we sit in some of those buses and only pray to reach our destinations; some tires are worn-out, and in the wet season, some have leaking roofs,” said Velma, a Douala resident.
Delphine, a businesswoman based in Bamenda, expressed her anxiety about traveling.
“Each time I think of traveling, I feel sick. Our roads are highways to our graves,” she said.
The Dschang Hill, notorious for being a danger zone for road users, has witnessed numerous accidents over the years, claiming lives and prompting calls for improved safety measures.
Despite the recurring tragedies, authorities have faced criticism for inadequate efforts to prevent the loss of lives on this stretch of road.
