Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand: A bus carrying over 40 passengers met with a tragic accident in Uttarakhand’s Pauri Garhwal district, resulting in more than 20 fatalities and multiple severe injuries. The bus was en route to a pilgrimage site when it lost control on a steep mountain road, veering off into a deep gorge. The incident occurred in a remote and challenging terrain, making immediate rescue efforts difficult.
Officials said The accident took place around 8.25 am. Residents of the nearby villages were the first responders and started rescuing passengers. While several passengers died at the spot, at least nine succumbed to injuries after they were rushed to hospital. Three passengers have been airlifted and are being taken to AIIMS. The bus belonged to Garhwal Motor Owners’ Union and a probe is on to identify the circumstances that led to the tragedy. Officials from Almora and Ramnagar are on the spot.
Eyewitnesses and initial reports suggest that the accident was likely due to a combination of factors, including poor road conditions, steep slopes, and potential mechanical issues with the bus. Mountainous roads in Uttarakhand are often narrow and winding, requiring skilled driving, and any loss of control can result in catastrophic outcomes. The bus skidded off the road at a sharp bend, plunging into the gorge below, where it came to rest amid dense forest.
Rescue operations began immediately after the accident, with local authorities, state disaster response teams, and nearby villagers joining forces. The challenging terrain hindered efforts, as rescuers had to rappel down the steep gorge with minimal support and equipment to access the wreckage. Helicopters were later deployed to assist in transporting the injured to hospitals for treatment. Emergency response teams faced difficulties due to limited road access and poor visibility in the dense forested area.
Medical teams worked tirelessly to treat survivors, many of whom suffered from life-threatening injuries. Hospitals in nearby towns were put on high alert to handle the influx of injured passengers, while authorities set up emergency contact numbers for families to receive information on their loved ones.
Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, extending condolences to the families of the deceased and assuring immediate relief and support. Financial aid and compensation have been announced for the families of the victims and the injured, and an investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the accident. Additionally, authorities have highlighted the need to improve road safety and maintenance standards on mountainous routes prone to accidents.
The Uttarakhand bus tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the risks associated with mountain travel in the region and has raised questions about safety protocols and road conditions on popular pilgrimage and tourist routes. The tragic loss of life has sparked public debate on the necessity for stricter regulations and enhanced safety measures on hilly roads, especially for passenger buses in Uttarakhand’s rugged terrain.
Author: VS NEWS DESK
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