Tragedy struck Uttarakhand’s Dehradun district when an HRTC bus veered off a treacherous mountain road and fell into a 100-foot gorge, killing three passengers on the spot and injuring more than 15 others. The overcrowded vehicle was traveling from Himachal’s Chaupal depot to Paonta Sahib.
According to officials, the bus departed at 6:30 AM and met disaster near Sudoi Khadd around 10 AM. While maneuvering around a truck on the narrow Meens-Kwanu-Haripur stretch, the road shoulder gave way, sending the bus somersaulting down the slope.
Rapid response from SDRF, police, and local volunteers prevented further casualties. Ambulances ferried the wounded to hospitals in Vikasnagar and Dehradun, where emergency wards are overwhelmed.
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, monitoring the situation closely, instructed district authorities to prioritize victim care. “I’ve directed the DM to ensure all possible aid reaches the site. Medical teams are ready for air evacuations,” he posted on social media.
The chief minister’s proactive stance highlights the state’s commitment to disaster management in hilly terrains. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
As cranes and rescue gear battle the steep incline, questions arise about road maintenance and vehicle overloading. This route, vital for inter-state connectivity, has witnessed multiple accidents recently.
Authorities have launched an inquiry, focusing on driver fatigue, brake failure, and infrastructure lapses. The incident serves as a grim reminder for stricter safety protocols on Uttarakhand’s accident-prone highways.
