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A tragic bus accident in Uttarakhand's Almora district has claimed the lives of 36 people, highlighting the perilous nature of mountain roads and the need for stringent safety measures in the region. The incident occurred on the morning of [date], when a 45-seater passenger bus, belonging to the Garhwal Motor Owners' Union, plummeted into a 200-meter deep gorge near Marchula. The bus was en route from Pauri in Garhwal to Ramnagar in Kumaon.
The impact of the accident was devastating, with several passengers losing their lives at the scene. Rescue efforts were immediately launched by the local police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), who worked tirelessly to extract survivors from the wreckage and transport the injured to nearby hospitals. However, the severity of the accident resulted in nine additional fatalities at the hospital, bringing the total death toll to 36.
In the wake of this horrific event, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his profound sorrow and offered his condolences to the families of the victims. Recognizing the urgent need for swift action, he instructed the district administration to expedite the rescue operation and ensure that all necessary assistance was provided to those affected. He also announced a compensation of Rs. 4 lakh each for the families of the deceased and Rs. 1 lakh for those injured in the accident.
To address concerns regarding the safety of public transportation and prevent similar tragedies in the future, the Chief Minister ordered the suspension of RTO officials in the area. This action signifies a commitment to holding officials accountable for any negligence or lapses in safety regulations that may have contributed to the accident. Furthermore, a magisterial inquiry has been ordered to thoroughly investigate the circumstances leading to the bus falling into the gorge and identify any potential factors that could have prevented this tragedy.
The Almora bus accident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with travel in mountainous terrain. The incident has prompted renewed calls for enhanced safety measures on hill roads, including stricter vehicle inspections, improved road infrastructure, and mandatory driver training programs. Authorities are facing pressure to address these concerns and implement comprehensive safety strategies to protect passengers and prevent future tragedies.
While the focus remains on providing support to the grieving families and ensuring the well-being of the injured, the accident has also sparked a crucial debate on the need for a multi-pronged approach to road safety. This includes addressing the issue of road conditions, vehicle maintenance, driver fatigue, and the need for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations. By prioritizing safety through proactive measures and implementing comprehensive reforms, authorities can strive to create a more secure environment for travelers in Uttarakhand and across the country.
Source: 36 Killed As Bus Falls In Gorge In Uttarakhand's Almora District