30 killed in road accident near Pauri, Uttarakhand; toll may go up

At least 30 people were killed when a overcrowded private bus, carrying daily commuters, skidded and fell into a gorge in hilly state of Uttarakhand, official said. Over a dozen persons were injured in the accident which occurred near Naini Danda block in Pauri Garhwal.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Rawat told reporters that 30 people died when the private bus fell into a 700-ft deep gorge. “I am told that around a dozen others are injured and some of them are serious. The injured have been admitted to the state-run hospital and would be provided best possible treatment at government’s cost,” said Rawat.

Senior police official Sanjay Gunjiyal said that weather is Pauri is very bad. It has been raining since morning. Two days back there was a landslide in that area. “Rescue teams have reached the accident site. So far, 20 bodies have been pulled out.  Rescue work is being hampered because of inclement weather,” said Gunjiyal.

Gunjiyal said that local residents were the first to reach the site and help the victims. “As it is inhospitable terrain, mobile connectivity is poor. Three choppers are waiting for clearance. If weather permits these will be pressed into service to evacuate the injured to Dehradun,” he said.

The official said the 28-seater bus was carrying over 40 passengers. "Over-crowding could be one of the reasons for the accident but this a matter for probe to decide,” he said.

The bus was heading for Ramnagar from Bhaon and was carrying daily commuters. Officials confirmed that it was not carrying tourists or pilgrims.