By The Nexus Gazette.
23th August, 2024.
Kathmandu, Nepal – A devastating bus accident in Nepal has tragically claimed the lives of fourteen Indian nationals after their bus plunged into the Marsyangdi River. The accident occurred on Friday, August 23, 2024, in the Tanahun district, roughly 120 kilometers west of Kathmandu, highlighting the ongoing dangers of traveling on Nepal’s mountainous roads.
The bus, registered in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, was on its way from the popular tourist destination of Pokhara to Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. The vehicle, carrying 43 Indian passengers, lost control on the narrow Prithvi Highway and fell approximately 150 meters (500 feet) down a steep slope, ultimately crashing into the rocky banks of the Marsyangdi River.
Witnesses reported that the bus veered off the road before it plunged down the mountainside. The challenging terrain and poor road conditions in this region are believed to have contributed to the accident. The incident underscores the perils of road travel in Nepal, particularly on the mountainous routes where such accidents are all too common.
Nepalese authorities quickly initiated rescue operations following the accident. The Nepal Armed Police Force, along with local responders, were on the scene within hours. A Nepal army helicopter carrying a medical team was also dispatched to assist in the rescue efforts. Despite the difficult terrain and the fast-moving river, rescuers managed to save several lives. Sixteen passengers who survived the crash were pulled from the wreckage and are currently receiving medical treatment.
Deepkumar Raya, a senior police official from Tanahun, described the scene: “The bus bearing number plate UP FT 7623 plunged into the river and is lying on the bank of the river. Rescue operations are ongoing, and we are doing everything we can to assist the survivors and recover the bodies of the deceased.”
This tragic incident brings to light the ongoing safety concerns on Nepal’s roads. Poorly maintained roads, hazardous driving conditions, and the challenging geography of Nepal contribute to frequent accidents, especially in mountainous regions. Just last month, a similar disaster occurred when landslides pushed two buses into the Trishuli River, resulting in multiple fatalities.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu is working closely with local authorities to assist the victims and their families. The embassy has expressed its deepest condolences and assured that all necessary support will be provided to those affected by this horrific accident.
Resources:
1.https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czx60gvpynro.amp
3.https://www.oneindia.com/india/indian-bus-with-40-passengers-falls-into-river-in-nepal-3915085.html
4.https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czx60gvpynro
5.https://bing.com/search?q=Fourteen+dead+after+Indian+bus+falls+into+river+in+Nepal