Bilaspur (Himachal Pradesh): In a tragic incident on the occasion of Guru Purnima, a private bus carrying devotees from a religious gathering in Punjab fell into a deep gorge near Namhol in the Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh. The accident occurred around 3:00 PM and left at least 26 passengers injured, while ten others escaped with minor or no injuries.
The bus, reportedly returning to Solan district’s Darlaghat area, was packed with devotees who had travelled to Punjab for a spiritual satsang program. Preliminary reports indicate that 36 people were onboard at the time of the accident.
Injured Devotees Rushed to AIIMS Bilaspur
The local administration and emergency services acted swiftly, with locals playing a crucial role in the initial rescue efforts. The injured were immediately pulled out of the wrecked vehicle and transported via ambulances to AIIMS Bilaspur and nearby health centers for treatment.
Medical authorities confirmed that most of the injured are out of danger, though some are under close observation. The names and identities of all passengers are being compiled for notification and support to families.
Cause of Accident Under Investigation
The exact reason for the accident has not yet been officially confirmed. The Barmana Police Station has taken up the investigation and is currently examining possible factors including:
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Driver fatigue or negligence
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Brake failure or mechanical fault
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Road conditions near Namhol, which include steep bends and narrow lanes
Eyewitnesses and survivors have been called in to provide their statements. Some early testimonies suggest that the bus lost control during a sharp turn, leading to it plunging down the hillside.
Rescue Operation Praised
Local villagers and bystanders have been widely praised for their quick response and bravery, helping evacuate the injured from the bus before emergency services arrived. Within minutes of the incident, police teams, ambulances, and district officials reached the spot and coordinated relief operations.
Deputy Commissioner of Bilaspur and SP Bilaspur have visited the injured at AIIMS and assured all necessary medical assistance and logistical support.
Devotees Were Returning from Religious Program
The bus was part of a group returning from a Guru Purnima Satsang held in Punjab, organized by a spiritual organization known to conduct large-scale religious gatherings during auspicious Hindu festivals. Guru Purnima, a day dedicated to spiritual teachers and mentors, attracts thousands of devotees each year.
Passengers included men, women, and elderly individuals, most of whom are reported to be residents of the Darlaghat and surrounding areas in Solan district.
CM and Local Leaders Express Concern
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister expressed concern over the incident and asked the Bilaspur administration to monitor the situation closely. He tweeted:
“Deeply concerned by the tragic bus accident near Namhol, Bilaspur. Wishing speedy recovery to all injured. Emergency services are on-site, and the situation is being monitored.”
Several local MLAs and religious leaders have also visited the hospital and urged for a thorough inquiry into the cause of the accident. Some have called for stricter safety regulations for private buses carrying passengers across hilly terrains.
Road Safety in Hills Again Under Spotlight
This accident once again highlights the urgent need for better road safety enforcement on hilly roads. With frequent travel by tourists and religious groups during festivals, poor road conditions, vehicle maintenance lapses, and overspeeding continue to pose grave risks.
Transport department officials have promised a technical inspection of the bus, and if mechanical failure is proven, action will be taken against the bus operator.
Summary of Key Developments:
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Private bus carrying Guru Purnima devotees from Punjab met with an accident near Namhol, Bilaspur
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26 injured, being treated at AIIMS Bilaspur and other health centers
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36 passengers were onboard, majority from Darlaghat area of Solan
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Locals and police helped in quick rescue operation
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Cause of accident under investigation by Barmana Police
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Himachal CM expressed concern; government monitoring situation
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Road safety for religious and hill travelers once again in question
