Bus Plunges Into 200‑Foot Gorge in Himachal Pradesh: A passenger bus plunged into a 200‑foot deep gorge near Patdighat in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, today, tragically claiming the lives of two travelers and injuring around 20 others. The accident occurred during morning hours when the bus veered off its path, crashing through a roadside railing before plummeting down the steep hillside. (Bus Plunges Into 200‑Foot Gorge in Himachal Pradesh)
Witnesses say the bus swerved suddenly possibly to avoid an oncoming vehicle and derailed. Rescue teams from the local administration, along with police and forest officials, reached the site within minutes. They used ropes and stretchers to rescue survivors as locals joined to pull injured passengers to safety. Injured travelers were rushed to nearby hospitals in Mandi and Kullu, where doctors immediately began treating fractures, head injuries, and minor cuts. Medical staff continue to monitor the condition of the wounded.
Follow the Latest Updates Group:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb2Z6498F2pHMwM9YA1S
Police have arrested the bus driver for questioning and are investigating whether speeding, brake failure, or poor visibility due to early morning mist caused the accident. Authorities have also collected statements from passengers and conducted mechanical checks on the bus. Meanwhile, the Owners’ Association is cooperating with officials and will provide technical logs.
The state transport department dispatched alternate transport and arranged medical aid at the scene. Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh expressed grief over the incident and announced a compensation of ₹200,000 for each bereaved family and ₹50,000 for the injured. He also ordered a safety audit of mountain roads and urged drivers to exercise caution, especially in foggy conditions.
Local officials warned travelers to avoid driving during early morning mist and encouraged bus operators to maintain strict vehicle checks. They plan to step up patrols and install guardrails at accident-prone sections.
As investigations continue, authorities remain committed to improving mountain-route safety and preventing such tragedies in the future. The community has rallied together, offering support, food, and blankets to survivors and rescue teams at the crash site.
