SHIMLA: In a tragic incident early Sunday morning, a luxury bus carrying several passengers overturned in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district, resulting in injuries to 31 individuals, authorities confirmed.
The mishap occurred near the “4 Miles” area, also known as Bindrabani, close to a dumping site on the route between Chandigarh and Kullu. According to preliminary reports, the bus was en route to Kullu when the driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn.
Local police and emergency services responded quickly to the scene. Most of the injured were reported to have sustained minor wounds, including the bus driver and the conductor. All injured individuals were transported without delay to the Zonal Hospital in Mandi for medical treatment.
Eyewitnesses and police on the scene suggested that the accident might have been caused by a sharp turn and possibly slippery road conditions, although a detailed investigation is underway to determine the exact cause. Fortunately, there were no fatalities, and the quick response by first responders helped prevent more serious consequences.
“The passengers were very fortunate. While 31 people were injured, the majority of them only required basic medical attention,” said a police officer involved in the rescue operation. “We are thankful there were no life-threatening injuries.”
Medical personnel at the Zonal Hospital stated that most of the victims had sustained bruises, cuts, and minor fractures. A few were kept under observation as a precautionary measure. By Sunday afternoon, several of the injured were already discharged after receiving first aid.
The bus, reportedly operated by a private travel company, was heavily damaged in the incident. Traffic on the road was temporarily disrupted as the vehicle was being removed and the area cleared. Authorities coordinated to ensure that other vehicles could pass safely, and a temporary diversion was arranged to manage traffic flow.
Officials from the local transport department have indicated that the vehicle’s condition, maintenance records, and the driver’s credentials will be examined as part of the inquiry. “We are looking into all possible factors, including mechanical failure and human error,” a transport department spokesperson said.
Family members of some of the passengers expressed concern but were relieved to learn that their loved ones were safe and recovering. The incident has once again raised questions about road safety on hilly terrains, especially in regions like Himachal Pradesh, where winding roads and changing weather can create hazardous driving conditions.
Authorities have urged travelers to exercise caution while commuting through the hills and emphasized the importance of strict adherence to speed limits and road safety norms by transport operators.
While the situation remains under observation, local residents praised the swift response of emergency teams and the cooperation of passersby who helped rescue passengers immediately after the accident.The investigation remains ongoing, and further updates are expected as more details emerge.
