A coach carrying 48 Dutch tourists crashed in eastern Switzerland on Thursday afternoon after hitting a safety barrier and overturning on a road between Susch and Zernez in the canton of Graubünden. According to local police, the accident occurred at around 4:45 p.m.
The coach struck the roadside barrier before leaving the road and coming to rest on its side down an embankment. Several people were killed and others injured in the crash, while emergency teams, ambulances and helicopters were deployed to the scene. Authorities initially withheld the exact number of casualties as they worked to inform the victims’ families.
Tour Group Was Traveling Through Switzerland
According to the Dutch Federation of Travel Agencies, the coach belonged to Dutch tour operator Oad and was carrying 48 passengers, all of them Dutch nationals. The group had left the Netherlands on Monday and was staying in Austria before making a day trip to Switzerland when the accident occurred.
Oad said it was deeply shocked by the accident and was working with local authorities to understand the situation and support those affected and their families. Swiss President Guy Parmelin also expressed condolences to the victims and their loved ones and called for a thorough investigation into the incident.
Accident Occurs Near Swiss National Park
The crash occurred near Zernez, which serves as a gateway to Swiss National Park in the Engadin Valley. The protected Alpine area covers more than 100 square kilometres and is known for its mountains, wildlife and natural landscapes, attracting visitors interested in nature and outdoor tourism.
The accident has also brought attention to the importance of safe tourist transportation in mountainous destinations, where coaches and other road vehicles are commonly used to reach popular nature and outdoor attractions. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
