Tragic Accident Claims One Life and Injures 30 Near Himachal Temple
Accident Overview
Munish Sood
Mandi/Una: A tragic incident occurred late Thursday night (June 12, 2025) when a double-decker pickup truck carrying devotees veered off the road and fell into a 20-foot-deep gorge close to the famous Pirnigah Temple in Himachal Pradesh’s Una district. This accident resulted in one fatality and left 30 others injured.
Details of the Incident
The victims were part of a religious group from Majitha in Punjab’s Amritsar district. Earlier that day, they had visited Baba Balak Nath Temple and Dera Baba Vadbhag Singh before heading to Pirnigah when the mishap occurred.
Reports indicate that the vehicle, which had been modified with wooden planks to carry more passengers, lost control approximately 1.5 kilometers from the temple. The pickup overturned and fell into the gorge, causing panic and cries for help that attracted local residents.
Rescue Operations
Local villagers, along with emergency services, including 108 ambulances and a private bus, quickly initiated rescue efforts. The injured were taken to the Regional Hospital in Una, where one individual was pronounced dead upon arrival. Two critically injured devotees were subsequently referred to PGI-Chandigarh for advanced care.
Dr. Sanjay Mankotia, the Medical Superintendent at the Una Regional Hospital, confirmed that nearly 30 injured individuals were admitted. He noted, “Many suffered fractures and serious head injuries. All are currently receiving treatment, and the hospital staff acted swiftly after the alert was received.”
Eyewitness Accounts
Survivors and eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle was dangerously overcrowded. An injured devotee stated, “The pickup had been modified with wooden planks to create a double-decker setup. We were returning after our prayers when the vehicle lost control and fell into the gorge.”
Investigation and Safety Concerns
Local police arrived at the scene shortly after the accident and have begun an investigation to determine the cause, including whether safety and capacity regulations were breached.
The Pirnigah Temple is a well-known pilgrimage destination in northern India, attracting large crowds during the summer months. Authorities have advised pilgrims to exercise caution and avoid overcrowded transportation, particularly in hilly areas.