A bus carrying pilgrims to Badrinath overturned near Rishikesh on Wednesday, leaving seven people injured. The accident took place on a sharp curve near the Shivpuri area, about 20 kilometers from Rishikesh. The bus was en route to the holy town of Badrinath when the driver lost control, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and overturn.
Details of the Incident
The bus, operated by the Uttarakhand Transport Corporation, was carrying 35 passengers at the time of the accident. According to local police, the driver was attempting to negotiate a sharp turn when the bus overturned. Rescue teams arrived promptly and extricated the injured passengers from the wreckage.
Injured Pilgrims Hospitalized
All seven injured individuals were taken to a nearby hospital in Rishikesh. Their condition is reported to be stable, with no life-threatening injuries. The remaining passengers were unharmed and continued their journey to Badrinath after the incident.
Local authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. Preliminary reports suggest that excessive speed on the curve may have been a contributing factor. The driver, who sustained minor injuries, is being questioned.
Safety Concerns on Pilgrim Routes
The accident has raised concerns about road safety on the mountainous routes leading to popular pilgrimage sites like Badrinath. These roads are often narrow and winding, with sharp curves and steep gradients. During the pilgrimage season, which runs from May to October, thousands of devotees travel to these shrines, increasing the risk of accidents.
Authorities have urged drivers to exercise caution and adhere to speed limits. They also advised pilgrims to ensure that the vehicles they travel in are well-maintained and driven by experienced drivers.
Previous Incidents
This is not the first accident on this route. In July, a similar incident occurred when a jeep carrying pilgrims overturned near the same area, injuring five people. The Uttarakhand government has been working on improving road infrastructure and implementing safety measures, but accidents continue to happen.
Pilgrims are advised to stay updated on road conditions and travel during daylight hours when possible. The local administration has set up checkpoints to monitor vehicle fitness and driver fatigue.
