Tragic Bus Accident in Uttarakhand Claims Six Lives: What Happened?
Fatal Bus Crash in Almora District
In a tragic incident on Tuesday morning, a bus carrying approximately 18 passengers lost control and fell into a ravine on the Bhikiyasain-Vinayak road in Almora district, Uttarakhand, resulting in the deaths of at least six individuals, according to officials.
The accident occurred near Shilapani on the Bhikiyasain-Vinayak-Jalali motor road. The bus was on its way from Bhikiyasain to Ramnagar, having left Dwarahat around 6 a.m.
While traveling, the bus reportedly veered off course and plunged into a deep gorge. Emergency responders confirmed that six passengers were pronounced dead at the scene.
It is estimated that between 17 and 18 people were aboard the bus during the incident. Several injured passengers have been transported to the nearest government hospital in Bhikiyasain for medical attention.
Upon learning of the accident, police, district administration, and State Disaster Relief Force (SDRF) teams quickly arrived at the site to assist.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with concerns that some passengers might still be trapped inside the bus.
Senior officials from the district have also arrived to supervise the rescue efforts.
The accident site is located nearly 100 kilometers from the district headquarters, complicating the relief operations.
Officials reported that both the bus driver and conductor are safe and in stable condition.
Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his sorrow over the incident, stating that rescue and relief operations are being prioritized.
In a post on X, he shared, "I have received the extremely distressing news of a bus accident on the Bikhiyasain-Vinayak Motor Road, which was en route from Bikhiyasain to Ramnagar in Almora district, resulting in casualties among the passengers. This incident is profoundly painful and heart-wrenching."
He added, "We pray to God to grant eternal peace to the souls of the departed at His divine feet and provide strength to the bereaved families to endure this immense sorrow," while also wishing for a swift recovery for the injured.
The Chief Minister noted that the injured are being promptly treated at local hospitals, with those in serious condition referred to advanced medical facilities. He assured that the situation is under continuous monitoring and that he remains in contact with local authorities.