What Happened in Almora as a Bus Plunged into a Ravine?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Six fatalities reported from a bus accident in Almora.
- Rescue operations are ongoing to locate potential survivors.
- Chief Minister Dhami is monitoring the situation closely.
- Injured passengers are receiving medical attention.
- Local authorities are prioritizing relief efforts.
Almora, Dec 30 (NationPress) At least six individuals lost their lives after a bus, accommodating approximately 18 passengers, veered off course and fell into a steep ravine along the Bhikiyasain-Vinayak road in Uttarakhand's Almora district on Tuesday morning, as reported by officials.
As per official accounts, the tragic incident occurred near Shilapani on the Bhikiyasain-Vinayak-Jalali motor road. The bus was en route from Bhikiyasain to Ramnagar and had departed from Dwarahat around 6 a.m.
During its journey, the bus reportedly lost control and plunged into a profound gorge. Six passengers were confirmed deceased at the scene, according to officials.
It is estimated that about 17 to 18 individuals were on the bus at the time of the mishap. Multiple passengers suffered injuries and have been taken to the nearest government hospital in Bhikiyasain for medical care.
Upon receiving alerts about the accident, rescue teams from the police, district administration, and the State Disaster Relief Force (SDRF) swiftly arrived at the site.
Rescue efforts are currently ongoing, with authorities expressing concerns that some passengers might still be trapped inside the bus.
Senior district officials have also proceeded to the location to oversee the rescue operations.
The site of the accident is located nearly 100 kilometers away from the district headquarters, adding to the complexities of relief efforts.
Officials indicated that both the driver and conductor of the bus are safe and in stable condition.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed profound sorrow over the tragic event, stating that rescue and relief operations are being prioritized.
“I have received the deeply distressing news regarding the bus accident on the Bikhiyasain-Vinayak Motor Road, which was traveling from Bikhiyasain to Ramnagar in Almora district, resulting in casualties among passengers. This incident is immensely painful and heart-wrenching,” the Chief Minister remarked in a post on X.
“We pray to God to grant eternal peace to the souls of the departed and provide strength to the grieving families to bear this tremendous sorrow,” he added, while wishing for a swift recovery for those injured.
“Injured passengers are being promptly admitted to local hospitals by the district administration, with seriously injured individuals referred to advanced medical facilities for enhanced treatment. This situation is under continuous monitoring, and I am maintaining constant communication with local administrative authorities,” CM Dhami stated.