Narrow Escape from Disaster on Chamba-Bharmaur Highway

A significant accident was narrowly avoided on the Chamba-Bharmaur National Highway when a bus driver skillfully controlled the vehicle after heavy boulders fell onto the road. The incident, which occurred near Maihla, resulted in injuries to the driver but ultimately saved the lives of all passengers. Local residents are now urging authorities to implement stronger safety measures to prevent future occurrences. Read on to learn more about this close call and the community's response.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 12, 2026, 19:35 IST

Close Call on National Highway 154-A

Mahinder Patyal
Bharmour

On Tuesday afternoon, a significant accident was narrowly averted on the Chamba–Bharmaur National Highway 154-A.

Reports indicate that at approximately 3 PM, near Maihla, large boulders unexpectedly tumbled down from the hillside, landing on the roadway. At that moment, a private bus from the National Bus Service was traveling from Palampur to Holi.

The falling debris smashed the front windshield of the bus, and one substantial rock hit the steering area, resulting in injuries to the driver’s hand and leg. Despite the pain, the driver exhibited remarkable composure, managing to steer the vehicle safely and avert a potential disaster, thereby protecting the passengers.

The event caused a brief moment of panic among those present. Local community members have called on the district authorities to enforce robust safety measures along the precarious sections of NH-154A to avert similar occurrences in the future.