A tragic bus accident in northern India highlights the ongoing struggles with overcrowded and poorly maintained public transportation.
At a Glance
- At least 36 people died when a bus plunged into a gorge in northern India.
- The vehicle was reportedly overcrowded, carrying 63 passengers on a 37-seater bus.
- Several people sustained injuries, with some in critical condition.
- A magisterial inquiry has been launched into the causes of this tragedy.
Details of the Accident
In a devastating incident near Sarad Bend in northern India, a bus packed beyond its capacity fell into a deep 200-meter gorge, resulting in the deaths of at least 36 passengers. The overcrowded bus, which had 63 passengers on board, lost control and skidded off the roadway while en route from Naini Danda to Ramnagar. Preliminary reports indicate the vehicle was poorly maintained, contributing to its failure to remain on the road.
Deepak Rawat, a senior state government official, confirmed over 20 additional passengers were injured, with some in critical condition. Emergency services, including the SDRF, local police, and medical personnel, faced challenging terrain during the rescue operations, working swiftly to extract survivors.
Response and Investigation
Emergency response teams mobilized quickly to the accident site to evacuate injuries and recover bodies. The operation faced difficult terrain, but efforts remained underway to airlift severely injured individuals to appropriate health facilities. The state government, led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, has initiated an investigation into the tragic accident and has suspended two transportation officials who allowed the unsafe operation of the vehicle.
The transport department suspended the assistant regional transport officer for permitting the bus to operate despite its known poor condition. An official inquiry led by Kumaon commissioner Deepak Rawat is also reviewing potential causes for the accident.
Broader Concerns
India notoriously battles with road safety issues, such as overcrowded buses and reckless driving. The nation experiences one of the world’s highest road casualty rates. In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and announced financial aid to support victims’ families, offering Rs 2 lakh to families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured. Chief Minister Dhami followed with additional support pledges.
Sources
- Dozens Dead as Overcrowded Bus Plunges into Gorge
- At least 36 dead after overcrowded and dilapidated bus skids into a deep gorge in India
- 36 People Die, 6 Injured After Overcrowded Bus Crashes in India
