Tragedy struck on Friday as a bus carrying Indian pilgrims veered off Prithvi Highway in Nepal, resulting in at least 14 fatalities and 16 injuries. The bus, transporting 43 Indian nationals, careened off the highway and came to a halt near the Marsyangdi River, narrowly avoiding a plunge into the fast-flowing waters.
Rescue efforts were swiftly initiated by the authorities, with police and army personnel working to extricate passengers from the wreckage near Abukhaireni, a town located approximately 120 kilometers west of Kathmandu. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu confirmed that all individuals on board were Indian citizens and stated that they were collaborating with local authorities to coordinate relief operations.
This tragic incident is not an isolated one in Nepal, as the country has witnessed similar accidents in the past due to poorly maintained roads and vehicles. The challenging terrain, characterized by mountainous regions and narrow roads, poses significant risks for travelers.
Notably, this recent bus accident occurred in close proximity to a previous disaster in July, where two buses were swept away by landslides. The grim outcome of that incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by commuters navigating the treacherous routes in Nepal.
As the authorities continue their search and rescue efforts, the community mourns the loss of lives and hopes for the swift recovery of those injured in this tragic bus accident.
