Tragic accident in Rudraprayag: A bus full of passengers fell into the Alaknanda river, rescue operation underway

Tragedy Strikes Uttarakhand: Bus Plunges into Alaknanda River- A devastating accident unfolded in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, leaving a community in shock and mourning.**
The Accident-Early morning, a bus carrying 18 passengers veered off course and plunged into the Alaknanda River near Gholteer. The impact was immense, causing immediate chaos and panic. Rescue efforts began immediately, with local residents alerting authorities and emergency responders rushing to the scene.
Rescue and Recovery-The swift action of SDRF and local police teams has been crucial. Seven passengers have been rescued, though some are critically injured. Sadly, one passenger has lost their life. Eleven passengers remain missing, and the search continues with unwavering determination. The strong current of the river, swollen by recent heavy rains, significantly complicates the rescue efforts.
The Aftermath-The heavy rainfall in the Rudraprayag and Kedarnath regions has caused the Alaknanda River to swell, increasing the speed and force of its current. This has made the rescue operation challenging and dangerous. The Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, expressed deep sorrow and assured that all possible resources are being deployed for rescue and relief.
Questions Raised-This tragic incident raises serious concerns about passenger safety in the region. The condition of buses operating in hilly areas and the adequacy of driver training are under scrutiny. Calls for stricter vehicle inspections and enforcement of safety regulations are growing louder to prevent similar tragedies in the future. A helpline has been established to provide updates to concerned families.
Ongoing Efforts-The administration is working tirelessly, with combined teams from SDRF, NDRF, and the police, committed to locating the missing passengers. The focus remains on rescuing those still missing and providing support to the affected families. The situation is constantly monitored, and updates are being shared as they become available.