In a tragic incident in Himachal Pradesh's Shimla district, an elderly couple lost their lives and two other individuals sustained injuries when their vehicle veered off the road and plunged into a deep gorge. The accident occurred on Wednesday near the village of Kufri, a popular tourist destination on the outskirts of Shimla city.
Details of the Incident
The couple, identified as Rajinder Singh (72) and his wife Kamlesh Devi (68), were residents of Shimla. They were traveling in a Maruti Suzuki Alto along with two relatives, who were critically injured in the accident. According to police reports, the driver lost control of the car while navigating a sharp curve on the Kufri-Fagu road. The vehicle skidded off the asphalt and tumbled down approximately 200 meters into a steep gorge.
Rescue and Medical Response
Local villagers alerted the police and emergency services after hearing the sound of the crash. A team from the Shimla police station and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) reached the spot within half an hour. Rescue personnel used ropes and stretchers to extract the victims from the wreckage. The injured were rushed to the Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMCH) in Shimla, where their condition is stated to be stable.
Rajinder Singh and Kamlesh Devi were declared dead on arrival at the hospital. The bodies have been sent for post-mortem examination. The deceased were a well-known couple in the local community, with Rajinder Singh being a retired government employee.
Cause of Accident
Preliminary investigations suggest that the accident was caused by a combination of factors, including excessive speed and a sharp turn. The road in that area is known for its narrow width and lack of guardrails at certain stretches. Police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and are conducting a thorough inquiry.
Safety Concerns on Himachal Roads
This incident has once again highlighted the dangerous road conditions in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in hilly terrains. Many roads in the state are narrow, winding, and poorly maintained, leading to frequent accidents. According to data from the Himachal Pradesh Police, over 1,200 road accidents were reported in the state in 2023, resulting in more than 500 fatalities. The state government has been urged to improve road infrastructure and install safety barriers at accident-prone spots.
Local residents have demanded immediate action from the authorities to prevent such tragedies. They have called for the installation of crash barriers, better signage, and regular road maintenance. The district administration has assured that a detailed survey of accident-prone zones will be conducted and necessary measures will be implemented.
