A tragic bus accident in Uttarakhand's Almora district has resulted in multiple feared fatalities. The incident occurred on Monday, December 30, 2024, when a bus carrying passengers veered off the road and plunged into a deep gorge.
Details of the Almora Bus Tragedy
According to initial reports, the accident took place on the Almora-Takula route. The bus, which was en route, lost control and fell into a gorge near Binta village. Local authorities and eyewitness accounts suggest that six to seven individuals are feared dead following the devastating fall. The exact number of passengers on board at the time is still being verified by officials.
Immediate Rescue and Response Efforts
As soon as news of the accident broke, rescue operations were launched immediately. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and administrative officials rushed to the remote accident site. The challenging terrain of the hilly region is making the rescue operation complex and strenuous for the personnel involved.
Rescue workers are meticulously working to retrieve passengers from the wreckage at the bottom of the gorge. Ambulances have been deployed to transport the injured to nearby medical facilities. Senior district officials are present at the location, overseeing the efforts to provide all possible assistance.
Investigation and Next Steps
The cause of the accident is currently under investigation. Preliminary assessments often point to factors like mechanical failure, driver error, or the difficult road conditions commonly found in the mountainous state. A formal inquiry will be conducted to determine the exact sequence of events that led to this tragedy.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has been briefed about the incident. He has directed the district administration to ensure speedy rescue operations and best possible medical treatment for the survivors. The state government is expected to announce compensation for the families of the deceased and those injured in the Almora bus accident.
This unfortunate event highlights the persistent issue of road safety in the hilly terrains of Uttarakhand. It serves as a grim reminder of the dangers associated with travel on such routes, especially during the winter season.
