At least five passengers sustained injuries, some critically, when a tourist vehicle veered off the road and overturned on the Kiratpur-Manali National Highway near Panarsa in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday.
The accident occurred in the Aut subdivision of Mandi district as the vehicle was en route from Mandi towards Manali. According to preliminary police reports, the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle while navigating a sharp bend, leading to the overturn on the busy highway.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the incident caused immediate panic among the occupants, who were heard calling for help. Local residents and other motorists quickly converged at the scene to assist in the rescue of those trapped inside the overturned vehicle. The injured were subsequently transported to Nagwain Hospital for urgent medical attention.
A team from the Aut Police Station was dispatched to the accident site upon receiving notification and immediately commenced rescue and relief operations. Police officials were instrumental in facilitating the transfer of the injured to the hospital and conducted an initial inspection of the accident zone to gather evidence.
Initial assessments by authorities suggest that excessive speed or a momentary lapse in control by the driver might have been contributing factors to the mishap. Officials highlighted that the Mandi-Manali National Highway traverses challenging hilly terrain characterized by numerous sharp curves and steep gradients, rendering even minor driving errors potentially hazardous.
The police have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the precise cause of the accident. Authorities have stated that the driver will undergo a medical examination, and the mechanical fitness of the vehicle will also be thoroughly assessed as part of the ongoing inquiry.
The Mandi-Manali National Highway is recognized as a vital artery in Himachal Pradesh, serving as a primary route for both tourists and local commuters traveling to and from popular destinations such as Kullu and Manali. Traffic volume on this stretch typically experiences a significant surge during the peak summer tourist season.
According to police sources, the condition of the injured passengers is currently reported as stable. The investigation is progressing, and a detailed report is being compiled to document the findings of the accident inquiry.
The Chenab Times News Desk