A coach carrying Dutch tourists overturned on a mountain road in the eastern Swiss canton of Graubünden on Thursday afternoon, leaving five people dead and 40 injured, according to local police.
The accident occurred at around 4:45 pm on a stretch of road between the villages of Susch and Zernez, deep in the Engadine valley. The coach, operated by the Dutch tour company Oad, was travelling from Zernez towards Susch when it veered off the carriageway in a roadworks area near the hamlet of Less and tipped over onto an embankment.
Police confirmed that all 45 adults on board were from the Netherlands. Three people sustained serious injuries, seven were moderately hurt, and 30 suffered minor injuries. Emergency services, including helicopters, were dispatched to the scene, with television footage showing crews working around the overturned vehicle.
Day trip from Austria
The Dutch Federation of Travel Agencies (ANVR) said the coach had left the Netherlands on Monday and was on a day trip to Switzerland from Austria when the crash happened. The group was reportedly heading towards the Swiss National Park, a rugged Alpine reserve covering more than 100 square kilometres in the Engadine region.
Zernez, a gateway town to the park, is a popular starting point for visitors exploring the area's hiking trails and wildlife. The region is known for its dramatic mountain scenery and winding roads, which can be hazardous, especially in areas under construction.
Local authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. Roadworks were in progress at the site, and police have not yet indicated whether road conditions or driver error played a role.
The crash has cast a shadow over the local community, which is accustomed to welcoming thousands of tourists each year. Swiss transport officials have expressed condolences to the victims' families and pledged full cooperation with Dutch authorities.
This incident highlights the risks inherent in European coach travel, even on routes that are popular with tour operators. While such journeys offer scenic views and convenience, safety remains a paramount concern, particularly on mountain roads.
The Dutch embassy in Bern has been in contact with local authorities and is providing consular assistance to the families of those affected. The ANVR has also set up a support line for relatives.
As the investigation continues, the focus will be on ensuring that similar tragedies are prevented in the future. For now, the Engadine valley mourns the loss of five visitors who came to enjoy its natural beauty.
