Minute of Silence and Lowered Flags in Podkarpacie After Tragedy in Hungary

The region of Podkarpacie in Poland is observing a period of mourning following a devastating bus accident in Hungary that claimed the lives of 12 Polish citizens and left 10 others in serious condition. The bus was carrying tourists returning from Bosnia and Herzegovina when it crashed on the M3 highway.

In response to the tragedy, the governor of Podkarpacie, Teresa Kubas-Hul, has issued an appeal for solidarity. She called for a minute of silence to be observed at noon on Monday at the Podkarpackie Voivodeship Office in Rzeszów. Additionally, national flags will be flown at half-mast at the office and its branches from August 17-19.

The governor has also urged local authorities, government administrations, and event organizers across the region to adopt a subdued tone for their activities. This includes considering a moment of silence before cultural, sports, and entertainment events to allow residents to collectively pay tribute to the victims. "This is a particularly difficult time for the families and loved ones of those who died. Therefore, it is very important that we, as a community, pause for a moment, pay tribute to the victims, and show solidarity with those who are experiencing unimaginable pain today," the governor stated.

The bus was carrying 59 Polish nationals, including 57 passengers and two drivers. Of the 12 fatalities, five victims were in critical condition, and five others were in life-threatening condition. The injured are currently receiving treatment in Hungarian hospitals. Religious leaders from the Rzeszów diocese have also offered condolences and prayers for the deceased and the injured.

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This is a particularly difficult time for the families and loved ones of those who died. Therefore, it is very important that we, as a community, pause for a moment, pay tribute to the victims, and show solidarity with those who are experiencing unimaginable pain today.