Tragic Boulder Fall Claims Life of Pilgrim in Chamba During Manimahesh Yatra

Fatal Incident During Pilgrimage

Subhash Mahajan
Chamba

A tragic event unfolded in Mehla, Chamba, amidst the ongoing Manimahesh Yatra. In the early hours, around 3 AM, a large boulder unexpectedly fell from the hillside, striking a Thar vehicle that was transporting pilgrims. The force of the impact shattered the vehicle's sunroof and resulted in the immediate death of one passenger.

The victim has been identified as Makhan Singh (40), son of Shravan Singh, hailing from the village of Malian, Post Office Garhdiwal, Tehsil Garhdiwal, District Hoshiarpur, Punjab.

Preliminary reports indicate that the Thar was navigating the Mehla stretch when the boulder hit its roof, causing significant damage to the vehicle. Authorities have filed a case and initiated an investigation to ascertain whether the rockfall was a natural event or influenced by other factors.

This incident underscores the dangers associated with traversing unstable mountain roads during the pilgrimage season. The local administration has promised a thorough inquiry to determine the exact cause of the accident.