A tragic bus accident in Uttarakhand’s Almora district has resulted in the deaths of at least 36 passengers, with 19 others injured, after the vehicle plunged into a gorge in Marchula’s Salt area. The bus, carrying over 30 passengers, was en route from Nainidanda in Pauri to Ramnagar in Nainital when the accident occurred.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep sorrow over the incident and announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh for each injured passenger. He further directed the Kumaon division’s Commissioner to launch a magisterial inquiry to determine the cause of the accident. Additionally, the Chief Minister ordered the suspension of the assistant regional transport officer (Enforcement) for the area.
Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were dispatched promptly to the scene to assist local police in rescue operations. “The local administration and SDRF are working tirelessly to evacuate the injured and transport them to nearby medical facilities,” stated Chief Minister Dhami, adding that arrangements are in place to airlift critically injured individuals if needed.
The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to swift relief and recovery efforts in this tragic situation, underscoring the importance of safety and assistance for the affected families.
