Nearly a week after a tragic road accident on the Bhowali–Dunikhal motor road claimed five lives, the district administration has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the crash. The incident occurred on May 21 when a vehicle carrying an Uttarakhand native employed with a medical company in Lucknow, his wife, two sons, and their driver plunged nearly 500 meters into a gorge.
Inquiry Details
Nainital District Magistrate Lalit Mohan Rayal stated, “This probe aims to uncover the causes of the accident, examine possible technical failures or human negligence, and recommend measures to prevent such tragedies in future.” Following the directive, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Shri Kainchi Dham has initiated the inquiry process.
Public Participation
The administration has invited members of the public to submit any information, evidence, or eyewitness accounts related to the accident at the SDM office on working days until June 8. This step is intended to ensure a thorough investigation by gathering all available evidence.
Technical and Medical Reports
To facilitate the investigation, the Assistant Regional Transport Officer of Haldwani has been asked to submit a technical inspection report of the vehicle within a week. Meanwhile, the Chief Medical Officer of Nainital has been directed to provide medical records of the deceased.
Police and Road Infrastructure
The Circle Officer of Bhowali has been instructed to provide the FIR, inquest report, post-mortem reports, site inspection findings, and other relevant documents. Additionally, the Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department in Nainital has been asked to submit a report on road safety infrastructure, including crash barriers, warning signs, and other preventive measures along the route.
Wider Dissemination
The Tehsildar of Shri Kainchi Dham has been directed to publicise the inquiry notice and ensure wider dissemination of information regarding the investigation. This will help in reaching out to potential witnesses and gathering comprehensive evidence.
About the Author: Sonali Mishra covers stories in and around Nainital, with a liking for wildlife and court stories.
