Bus hits overhead road sign in Dubai, 17 killed

At least 17 people have been killed and nine others injured in an accident during which a bus hit an overhead road sign in the Emirati city of Dubai.

The Oman-registered vehicle, which was carrying 31 passengers of different nationalities, hit the road sign on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road on Thursday evening, police said.

During questioning, the Omani driver, who is in his 50s, said he had not seen the warning signage because he had installed a small curtain on his windshield to protect his eyes from the sun.

The exact circumstances of the accident were not clear. Some reports said the bus swerved to avoid the sign, that of a height restriction, but it tore through the roof anyway.

Dubai police said an investigation into the incident was underway.

The Indian consulate in Dubai confirmed on Friday that eight of the deceased had been Indian nationals, and later said the figure had risen to 12.

But there were no further details about the remaining victims.

Oman’s National Transport Company Mwasalat, meanwhile, tweeted its condolences and said it would suspend its services between the Omani capital and Dubai until further notice.

Press TV’s website can also be accessed at the following alternate addresses:

www.presstv.co.uk