
At least seven people were killed and 11 others injured after a private bus overturned on a mountain route in Himachal Pradesh's Chamba district on Saturday. The accident occurred on the Teesa-Bairagarh road, a stretch known for its sharp curves and steep gradients.
The bus, carrying passengers along the hilly route, lost control and overturned, leading to the tragedy. Local residents and police reached the spot soon after the incident to assist the injured and retrieve those trapped.
Emergency teams have been deployed to the accident site. The injured have been shifted to a nearby hospital, where their condition is stated to be stable. Officials have not yet confirmed the total number of passengers on board, and further details are awaited.
The district administration has initiated an inquiry into the cause of the accident. Preliminary assessments suggest that the challenging terrain and sharp turn may have contributed to the bus overturning, though a thorough investigation is underway.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives in the Chamba mishap. In a message, he extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
The Prime Minister's Office has assured all possible assistance to the state government in the relief and rescue operations. Local authorities are coordinating with health departments to ensure proper treatment for the injured.
Accidents on mountain routes in Himachal Pradesh are not uncommon, with narrow roads and steep drops posing risks. The Teesa-Bairagarh road is frequently used by private buses, and safety measures have been a recurring concern for locals.
Authorities have previously issued advisories for drivers on hilly terrain, but incidents continue to occur. The latest accident has once again highlighted the need for stricter enforcement of safety norms for private transport operators in the region.
The district administration is expected to release an official statement with the final casualty count and the cause of the accident. Meanwhile, the focus remains on the treatment of the injured and support for the bereaved families.