Tragic Car Accident Claims Lives of Tourists in Himachal Pradesh
Fatal Incident in Manikaran Valley
Munish Sood
Mandi
On Friday, a tragic car accident in Himachal Pradesh's Manikaran Valley resulted in the deaths of three tourists and left two others injured, including an eight-year-old girl. The incident occurred near Sarsadi when a vehicle, registered in Jalandhar, Punjab, lost control and plunged into a deep gorge.
The car was transporting five individuals, reportedly from the same family, when it veered off the road and rolled down a steep incline, eventually stopping near the Parvati River's banks.
Local residents quickly initiated a rescue operation upon hearing cries for help. Eyewitnesses described the vehicle as severely damaged, trapping the occupants inside.
A distressing video circulating on social media captured the scene, showing locals descending the hillside to reach the wreckage. Two passengers were rescued alive from the mangled car, while the eight-year-old was swiftly taken to safety. Rescuers had to force open parts of the vehicle to free the trapped individuals, as the impact had jammed the doors and windows.
Unfortunately, three passengers succumbed to their injuries, with one reportedly passing away en route to medical care. The two survivors were transported to a private hospital in Bhuntar for treatment.
Authorities, including police and administrative officials, arrived at the scene to investigate the accident's cause. The identities of the deceased and injured were being confirmed at the time of this report.
This heartbreaking event underscores the hazards associated with mountain roads in the area, especially during the busy tourist season when traffic significantly increases along the Kullu-Manikaran route.