The death toll from a bus accident in Almora district, Uttarakhand, has risen to 36. Local authorities reported that a 45-seater bus, traveling from Pauri in Garhwal to Ramnagar in Kumaon, veered off the road and fell into a 200-meter-deep gorge in Marchula this morning.
Rescue operations are currently underway, involving police and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams at the site of the accident. While many passengers died instantly, at least nine others succumbed to their injuries after being transported to the hospital. Three of the injured individuals have been airlifted to AIIMS for specialized treatment.
The bus, operated by the Garhwal Motor Owners’ Union, is now under investigation as officials seek to determine the accident’s cause. Authorities from both Almora and Ramnagar are on-site.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his condolences over the tragic event and instructed the district administration to expedite rescue and relief efforts. He shared on X, “I received very sad news regarding the casualties of passengers in the unfortunate bus accident that occurred in Marchula of Almora district. The district administration has been directed to carry out relief and rescue operations swiftly.”
Additionally, the chief minister ordered local administration and SDRF teams to ensure that the injured are promptly taken to nearby health centers and to arrange airlifts for those in critical condition. He also directed the suspension of Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials in the area.
In response to the tragedy, the chief minister announced a compensation of 400,000 INR for the families of the deceased and 100,000 INR for the injured. A magisterial inquiry into the accident has also been ordered.
