Fatal Accident on Somthana Ghat: Luxury Bus Overturns, Five Hurt

A private luxury passenger bus met with a disastrous overturn on the Yeola‑Nandgaon State Highway at Somthana Ghat in Nasik on Tuesday. The catastrophe claimed the life of one traveler instantly and left five others seriously wounded. About two dozen passengers were aboard at the time.

According to initial information, the driver abruptly lost grip on the controls while negotiating the steep descent, causing the bus to roll onto its side. The sound of the crash attracted immediate attention, and local residents quickly began rescue operations while notifying police and emergency services.

Police, ambulance crews and district officials reached the location promptly. The injured were rushed to the nearest medical facility where they are receiving treatment; several remain in a critical state, while the remainder are stable. The highway experienced temporary congestion before officials cleared the broken vehicle and restored traffic.

Investigators have opened a case, noting possible causes such as excessive speed, the sharp bend of the ghat, or a mechanical malfunction. The police have stressed that the final cause will be established only after a comprehensive inquiry.

Efforts are underway to confirm the identity of the deceased and inform his family. The driver and eyewitnesses are also being questioned. The administration has urged the public to exercise heightened caution while traveling through hill passes and to obey speed regulations, reinforcing the importance of safe driving on treacherous routes.