KATHMANDU: In one of the most tragic incidents of the summer in Uttarakhand, 14 individuals lost their lives, and 12 others sustained injuries, some critically, in an accident involving a tempo traveler. The vehicle, carrying passengers from Delhi-NCR, veered off the road and plunged into a 200-meter gorge near the Alaknanda river in the Raitoli area of Rudraprayag district on Saturday. Tragically, the accident claimed the lives of 10 individuals on the spot, while two others passed away en route to the hospital.
Of the 12 injured individuals, five were reported to be in critical condition and were rushed to AIIMS-Rishikesh for urgent medical attention. Regrettably, two unidentified individuals airlifted to AIIMS also succumbed to their injuries during transportation. The incident has left the families of the victims devastated and communities in mourning.
The tempo traveler, a 20-seater registered in Haryana, had departed from Delhi around 11 pm on Friday. The passengers, predominantly tourists, were en route to the Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashikla circuit, renowned for trekking activities and scenic beauty. The journey tragically ended in disaster, underscoring the risks associated with mountainous terrain and challenging road conditions.
Authorities investigating the accident stated that the vehicle had been stopped for a routine check intended for Char Dham pilgrims. However, upon interrogation, the driver clarified that the tempo traveler was being utilized for tourism purposes rather than the annual pilgrimage. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures and responsible conduct, especially in mountainous regions known for their picturesque landscapes but treacherous roads.
