One person was killed and around 18 others sustained injuries when a truck (CH 01 TB 4485) carrying a band party veered off the road and plunged into a gorge in the Theog subdivision of Shimla district on Tuesday. The deceased has been identified as Nitu, alias Pappu (30), a resident of Chandigarh.
Details of the Accident
According to district administration officials, the truck was transporting 24 persons associated with a band party, along with a mare, from Chandigarh to Kotkhai. The accident occurred near Jais village in Theog when the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to fall into a deep gorge.
Of the 24 occupants, 19 sustained injuries, while five others escaped unhurt. Police and district administration teams immediately rushed to the spot upon receiving information and launched a rescue operation. The injured were initially taken to the Civil Hospital in Theog, where one person succumbed to injuries. All remaining injured were later referred to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla for advanced treatment.
Official Response and Compensation
Theog SDM Dr. Shashank Gupta confirmed that immediate relief of Rs 5,000 each was provided to 13 injured persons. The family of the deceased has been informed about the incident. The mare that was travelling in the truck was safely shifted to the Gau Sadan in Theog. Police have registered a case and further investigation is underway.
Impact and Safety Concerns
The accident highlights the risks associated with overloaded vehicles on hilly terrain. The truck was carrying 24 passengers, which is well above the vehicle's capacity. Local authorities have urged stricter enforcement of traffic rules to prevent such tragedies. The injured are receiving treatment at IGMC Shimla, and their conditions are reported to be stable.
