LAGATAR24 DESK
Dehradun: In a devastating incident on Tuesday morning, 36 people lost their lives when a passenger bus plunged into a 200-metre-deep gorge near Marchula in Uttarakhand’s Almora district. The bus, a 45-seater, was on its way from Pauri in Garhwal to Ramnagar in Kumaon, an overnight journey of around 250 km, when the tragedy occurred, approximately 35 km from its destination. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation.
Rescue Efforts and Immediate Response
The accident reportedly took place around 8:25 am, and nearby villagers were quick to respond, attempting to rescue trapped passengers before officials arrived. Tragically, many passengers were pronounced dead at the scene, while nine others succumbed to injuries after being transported to the hospital. Three critically injured individuals have been airlifted to AIIMS. The bus, operated by the Garhwal Motor Owners’ Union, is now the focus of an official probe to determine what led to this tragic event.
Compensation and Investigation Ordered
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressed deep sorrow over the incident and directed district officials to expedite rescue and relief operations. He also announced a compensation of ₹4 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹1 lakh for the injured. The Chief Minister has additionally ordered a magisterial inquiry and has called for the suspension of local RTO officials as part of the investigation.
