TL;DR:Ā A roadways bus in Bhimtal, Uttarakhand, plunged into a 100-meter deep gorge, resulting in four fatalities and 21 injuries. Rescue operations are underway, with authorities providing medical assistance to the injured. šš
Hey folks, some really sad news from Bhimtal, Uttarakhand. š A roadways bus, cruising from Pithoragarh to Haldwani, took a nasty plunge into a 100-meter deep gorge. This tragic mishap led to the loss of four lives, and left 21 others injured. The scene was pretty intense, with rescue teams and locals hustling to help out. šš
What Went Down?
The bus, packed with around 20-25 passengers, was on its usual route when the driver apparently lost control near Bhimtal. The vehicle tumbled down the steep gorge, causing chaos and panic among the passengers. Locals nearby didn't waste a second and jumped in to assist, teaming up with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to rescue the injured.
Rescue Mission in Action
The SDRF, along with local heroes, worked tirelessly to pull survivors from the wreckage. The injured were swiftly taken to Sushila Tiwari Government Hospital in Haldwani for treatment. To ensure top-notch care, a team of doctors from AIIMS Rishikesh was also dispatched to Haldwani. The rescue ops were no joke, given the tricky terrain and the critical condition of some passengers.
CM Dhami's Response
Uttarakhand's Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He mentioned that the seriously injured are receiving treatment at Sushila Tiwari Government Hospital, with additional support from AIIMS Rishikesh. The CM also prayed for the speedy recovery of all the injured.
A Grim Reminder
This accident is a stark reminder of the frequent road mishaps in hilly regions like Uttarakhand. Just last month, a similar tragedy in Almora district claimed 36 lives when an overcrowded bus fell into a gorge. Such incidents highlight the pressing need for stringent safety measures and better road infrastructure to prevent future tragedies.
Stay Safe, Stay Alert
For all you travelers out there, especially in hilly terrains, always prioritize safety. Ensure vehicles are well-maintained, avoid overcrowding, and stay vigilant on those winding roads. Let's hope for a swift recovery for the injured and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. šš