Speaking to reporters at Chennai airport, Minister L. Murugan announced the bodies’ arrival and outlined the next steps. Four victims were from Pallachi, Coimbatore, and three from Chennai. ‘Preparations are complete to airlift them to their native places for funeral ceremonies,’ he informed.

The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu played a pivotal role, rushing medical aid to the injured and streamlining the process to bring back the deceased. Four individuals are battling severe injuries in hospital, with three others slated for release soon after sustaining lighter wounds.

‘I immediately got in touch with embassy staff after learning of the tragedy,’ Murugan shared, highlighting the coordinated government response. Tamil Nadu authorities stand ready to assist families in Pallachi and Chennai as the bodies make their final journey home.

The crash has cast a shadow over the pilgrims’ families, who now grapple with profound loss. Official assurances of full governmental aid aim to provide solace amid grief. With the bodies safely in India, attention shifts to supporting the survivors and probing the accident’s causes to prevent future mishaps.

Posting on X, the Vice President conveyed his anguish: ‘Heartbroken to learn of the tragic bus mishap in Nepal claiming seven lives from Tamil Nadu and injuring many. My thoughts are with the grieving families, and I pray for the injured’s quick recovery.’ His words resonated widely, reflecting national mourning.

Radhakrishnan didn’t stop at condolences; he issued firm instructions to officials and the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. They must ensure comprehensive support, from treating the hurt to swiftly bringing the mortal remains home. The embassy affirmed its round-the-clock efforts to assist.

Details of the horror emerged from Gorkha’s Shahid Lakhan Rural Municipality. The microbus, ferrying worshippers returning from Manakamana Temple via Tanahun’s Ambukhaireni, lost control on a treacherous bend in Kantar and tumbled into a ravine. Saturday’s accident caught everyone off guard, turning a sacred trip into tragedy.

Nepali rescuers braved the challenging site to extract survivors, ferrying them to medical facilities. Seven lives were lost, with an equal number battling injuries. Police investigations point to possible road conditions or driver error, though the exact cause is under probe.

For Tamil Nadu, this is a painful reminder of risks in cross-border pilgrimages. The Vice President’s proactive stance ensures India stands solidary with its people. As bodies are prepared for return, prayers echo for healing and justice, marking yet another chapter in road safety concerns in the Himalayas.