Zabul, Afghanistan—A passenger bus overturned on the Kabul–Kandahar highway in the early hours of Monday, resulting in at least one death and 28 injuries. The 580-type vehicle was traveling from Herat to Kabul when it veered off the road in the Bazargan area of the Shajoy district. Emergency responders were called to the scene shortly after 4:00 a.m.

The injured, which included 18 men, six women, and four children, were transported to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment. Local police confirmed that security personnel and nearby residents assisted in the evacuation efforts immediately following the wreck. The cause of the accident is currently being investigated, with initial reports suggesting a technical malfunction.

Traffic accidents remain a frequent occurrence on the Kabul–Kandahar highway due to a combination of poor road infrastructure, excessive speeding, and inadequate vehicle maintenance. This specific route is one of the busiest in the country, often serving as a primary artery for commercial and civilian transit between provinces.

Provincial police officials have launched a formal inquiry into the circumstances of the crash to determine if negligence played a role. Mechanical inspection teams are currently examining the wreckage to identify the specific nature of the technical failure. No other vehicles were involved in the incident.

The victim’s body was handed over to family members for funeral arrangements after medical formalities were completed. Health officials at the local hospital noted that most of the 28 survivors are in stable condition and recovering from their injuries.

Authorities have cautioned drivers to exercise extreme care on this stretch of highway, particularly during the early morning hours when visibility is reduced.

Further updates are expected as the investigation into the bus company’s safety records progresses.

The site of the accident has been cleared of debris.

The road is now open for transit.