What Happened When a Truck Carrying Kanwariyas Overturned in Uttarakhand's Tehri?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tragic accident leaves several Kanwariyas injured.
- Three feared dead in the incident.
- Rescue operations involved local police and SDRF.
- Need for improved safety measures in hilly terrains during monsoon.
- Authorities urged to provide advisories for pilgrims.
Tehri, July 2 (NationPress) A truck transporting approximately 15 to 17 Kanwariyas flipped over near Jajal, Tachla, within the jurisdiction of the Narendra Nagar Police Station in Uttarakhand's Tehri Garhwal district on Wednesday, resulting in serious injuries for all passengers who were trapped beneath the vehicle. Tragically, three Kanwariyas are feared dead due to this incident.
The mishap occurred while the truck was en route from Rishikesh to Gangotri, narrowly avoiding a deep gorge after losing control on the narrow path.
The injured individuals were rescued through a coordinated effort by local police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), who quickly arrived at the site to facilitate relief and rescue operations.
As per officials, the truck overturned near Jajal Fakot, right at the edge of the roadway, and just escaped falling into the gorge below.
Sadly, three individuals are feared deceased, with three others in critical condition requiring advanced medical care.
While the majority of the injured are currently receiving treatment at the Fakot Health Centre, those with more severe injuries were swiftly transported to AIIMS Rishikesh and a hospital in Narendra Nagar.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his condolences on social media regarding the incident and instructed officials to ensure that the injured receive all necessary medical attention.
He stated, "I am saddened by the news of a truck accident near Jajal Fakot on the Rishikesh-Gangotri Highway. I pray for the souls of those lost and for the swift recovery of the injured. The district administration has been directed to provide all possible treatment to the injured," posted CM Dhami on X.
Locals, hearing cries for assistance, rushed to the scene and immediately notified the authorities.
According to officials, with the aid of a JCB machine, the overturned truck was repositioned, and the injured were transported to medical facilities in Narendranagar.
This incident highlights the inherent dangers of traveling through the hilly terrains of Uttarakhand, especially during the monsoon season.
The poor state of the roads, exacerbated by continuous rain and frequent landslides, renders travel extremely perilous.
As the Char Dham Yatra and Kanwar Yatra are currently in progress, authorities are being urged to implement strict advisories and safety protocols for all pilgrims.
With an increase in devotees expected in the coming days, there are growing concerns regarding the state's infrastructure preparedness to ensure safe transit for pilgrims navigating the challenging mountainous routes.