India: 36 dead as passenger bus plunges into deep gorge

A devastating bus accident in Almora district of India’s State of Uttarakhand has claimed the lives of 36 individuals and left several others injured.

The incident occurred on November 4 when a bus travelling from Pauri to Ramnagar plunged into a deep gorge near Marchula, Caliber.Az reports, citing Indian media resources.

According to Kumaon Division Commissioner Deepak Rawat, the bus was carrying approximately 40 passengers at the time of the accident, which happened at around 8:45 AM local time.

District Magistrate Alok Kumar Pandey confirmed the grim death toll and reported that emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene.

Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) stated that multiple teams were sent to conduct search and rescue operations. Responders worked tirelessly to recover bodies and assist the injured, breaking windows and cutting through metal to reach those trapped inside the bus.

Search efforts are ongoing as responders strive to locate any remaining survivors.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his profound sorrow over the tragic loss of life. In a statement on X, he said, “I received the very sad news of the casualties among passengers in this unfortunate accident. The local administration and SDRF teams are working swiftly to evacuate the injured and provide necessary medical assistance.”

In response to the tragedy, Chief Minister Dhami has ordered the suspension of the Assistant Regional Transport Officers in Pauri and Almora districts.

He also announced financial aid of $4,800 for the families of the deceased and $1,200 for each injured passenger.

Additionally, Dhami directed a magisterial inquiry into the incident, instructing the Commissioner of Kumaon Mandal to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.

By Khagan Isayev