A devastating incident occurred on the Chamba-Bharmour National Highway in Himachal Pradesh when boulders dislodged from a hillside struck a private bus, resulting in the death of one passenger and injuries to five others. The accident took place near Ghera on Sunday morning, disrupting the return journey of devotees who had visited the historic Chaurasi Temple complex in Bharmour.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the deceased has been identified as Sahil Thakur, a resident of Gared village within the Chamba district. The injured individuals, who have been admitted to Pt Jawahar Lal Nehru Government Medical College in Chamba, include Guddu Devi, Binta, Gilma Devi, and the bus driver, Kulwinder Singh, all reportedly from the same Gared village.
The bus was en route from Bharmour to the passengers’ homes when the tragic event unfolded at a location known as Batti Ki Hatti. Heavy rainfall in the area is believed to have contributed to the hillside instability. Eyewitness accounts indicate that boulders suddenly tumbled down the slope, impacting the rear of the moving bus. The force of the impact shattered the rear window, sending fragments of glass and stones into the passenger cabin, injuring six people.
Emergency services were alerted, and the injured were swiftly transported to the nearest medical facility. Despite efforts to provide immediate aid, Sahil Thakur succumbed to his injuries while en route to the hospital. The remaining injured passengers are receiving medical attention.
Following the incident, a police team was dispatched to the site of the accident. Officers conducted an inspection of the area, gathering evidence and recording statements from individuals who witnessed the event. The Chamba Superintendent of Police, Vijay Kumar Saklani, confirmed that a case has been registered. Authorities have initiated further investigations to ascertain the exact circumstances that led to the landslide and the subsequent bus accident.
The Chamba-Bharmour National Highway, designated as NH-154A, is a crucial route connecting the town of Chamba with the pilgrimage site of Bharmour. The region frequently experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which can increase the risk of landslides and road blockages. Such natural events pose significant challenges for transportation in the hilly terrain, often leading to disruptions and posing safety risks to commuters.
The Chaurasi Temple complex in Bharmour is a significant religious destination, drawing a considerable number of pilgrims, particularly during auspicious periods. The accident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with travel in mountainous areas, especially during adverse weather conditions. Local authorities often issue advisories for travellers during periods of heavy rain and advise caution while plying on such routes.
Investigations by the police are expected to focus on the factors that contributed to the landslide, including the geological conditions of the hillside and the impact of the prevailing weather. The findings from the ongoing inquiry will help in understanding the cause of the incident and potentially inform measures to mitigate future risks along this vulnerable stretch of highway.
The incident has cast a pall over the pilgrimage season, highlighting the ongoing need for robust road safety measures and landslide mitigation efforts in the mountainous regions of Himachal Pradesh. The administration has been working on improving road infrastructure and implementing early warning systems to enhance safety for commuters traversing these challenging routes.
The Chenab Times News Desk