What Caused the HRTC Bus Tragedy That Left Five Dead in Himachal's Mandi?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Five fatalities reported in the HRTC bus accident.
- Emergency teams responded quickly to the scene.
- Most victims were locals.
- Investigation into the cause is ongoing.
- Community members played a crucial role in rescue efforts.
Shimla, July 24 (NationPress) Tragically, at least five individuals lost their lives and many others sustained injuries when a Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus tumbled down a hillside in Mandi district on Thursday, according to police reports.
The bus, carrying 30 passengers, veered off the road and plunged into a ravine.
The injured were swiftly transported to the Civil Hospital in Sarkaghat, with three of them in critical condition being referred to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Bilaspur.
Superintendent of Police Sakshi Verma informed the media that four victims—two men and two women—died at the scene. The injured were promptly taken to the Civil Hospital in Sarkaghat.
The accident's cause remains unknown as investigations continue.
Emergency response teams from the Sarkaghat police station and the Deputy Superintendent of Police's office arrived at the scene shortly after the incident. Ambulances were dispatched immediately.
Rescue operations faced challenges, as the administration struggled to extract victims from the bus.
Local villagers were the first to respond, initiating rescue efforts before authorities could arrive.
Most victims were reported to be locals, as per officials.
Chief Minister Sukhwinder Sukhu expressed his condolences regarding the tragedy at Tarangala near Maseran in the Sarkaghat subdivision.
He has directed the district administration to ensure that the injured receive prompt medical attention.
“In this time of sorrow, I extend my condolences to the grieving families and pray for the souls of the deceased. I also wish a quick recovery for the injured,” the Chief Minister shared on X.
BJP leader and former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur remarked that the bus accident in Mandi is “extremely tragic, and I pray to God for strength for everyone. I urge the administration to arrange proper medical care for the injured.”