A large tourist bus with 30 passengers collided with a power pole on the morning of January 8, 2023, at approximately 11:10 AM, causing multiple injuries and significant disruption to local electricity supply.
The incident occurred on the city road near Iwanosawanishi, Handa City, Aichi Prefecture, as the bus was returning from bird flu sanitation work conducted at nearby poultry farms.
According to the local police and firefighting departments, the bus driver, aged 50, and two male passengers, both workers involved in the sanitation efforts, sustained light injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals. Reports indicate they were conscious upon arrival at the medical center and are expected to recover fully.
The bus, which had a capacity of 51 passengers, was on government contract for this public health initiative aimed at controlling the spread of avian influenza. The job was particularly necessary after several cases of the virus had been detected at poultry farms located in nearby Tokoname City.
Eyewitnesses reported the sound of the collision as particularly jarring. A couple running a nearby restaurant recounted, “I heard a dull sound and at the same time the lights went out. I’m glad there were no serious injuries.” Their comments reflected the shock felt by many who witnessed the event.
The collision resulted not only in injuries but also caused temporary power outages affecting around 1870 households in the vicinity. Initially, residents were left without electricity as the power pole was severely damaged, requiring quick action from the electric company to restore service. Fortunately, the power was largely restored shortly thereafter.
Local authorities have launched investigations to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the accident. The site of the crash is described as primarily residential, with the close vicinity to farmland, raising concerns over pedestrian safety and traffic management.
Governor of Aichi Prefecture, Omura Hideaki, addressed the situation, expressing his astonishment at the occurrence of such collisions during daylight hours. He stated, “I am greatly disappointed and regretful about the incident having happened.” He confirmed to the media there is no expected impact on biosecurity measures due to the incident, emphasizing the importance of continuing the efforts against the avian flu outbreak.
Reports confirm the bus was returning from completing sanitation duties related to the bird flu where infected chickens were culled and necessary sanitation procedures were undertaken. Consequently, the local government assured communities affected by the accident they would resume public health measures as planned.
The realization of the severity of the accident and the safety of all involved will likely lead to discussions surrounding bus route safety and awareness, particularly for vehicles connected to public health services.
Despite the concerning nature of the crash, the prompt response of medical and emergency services ensured minor injuries were treated quickly. Local authorities remind citizens to remain vigilant about road safety and the potential for accidents, even on seemingly routine public health initiatives.
While investigations continue and safety measures are reassessed, those directly affected by the collision can take some comfort knowing the incident did not result in severe casualties, marking it as fortunate by local standards.