Four Dead, Several Injured as Passenger Vehicle Falls into Gorge near Dharamshala

National News: A passenger vehicle carrying more than 20 people met with a tragic accident early Friday morning when it lost control and plunged into a deep gorge at Ikku Khaddh turn near Jadrangal, under the jurisdiction of Yol police station. The incident occurred at approximately 7:30 am and has left the local community in shock.

Vehicle Reportedly from Punjab

Officials stated that the vehicle, believed to be from the Moga district of Punjab, was carrying an estimated 20 to 25 passengers. The stretch of road where the incident occurred is notorious for its sharp bends and steep slopes, with limited visibility during early morning hours. Preliminary police findings suggest that the driver lost control while navigating a curve, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and plunge into the gorge.

Rescue Efforts by Locals and Police

The force of the impact was severe, leaving the vehicle completely mangled. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud crash followed by cries for help. Local residents, along with drivers of other passing vehicles, rushed to the scene without delay. They began pulling victims from the wreckage even before the arrival of the rescue teams. The police reached the spot soon after being alerted and joined the efforts to extract the injured.

Casualties and Identities of Victims

Preliminary reports indicate that one woman died on the spot due to fatal injuries. Three others—including two men and one woman—succumbed to their wounds while being transported to the hospital. Their identities have not yet been formally disclosed as authorities work to notify the families.

Injured Shifted to Tanda Medical College

Narayan Singh, in charge of Sadar Police Station Dharamshala, confirmed that all the injured passengers were immediately shifted to Dr. Rajendra Prasad Medical College, Tanda. “The condition of some victims remains critical. Our priority right now is to ensure they receive the best possible medical attention,” he said.

Doctors Battling to Save Lives

Medical teams at the hospital have been working continuously to stabilize the injured. Doctors have stated that several passengers sustained multiple fractures and internal injuries, while others are in shock from the trauma of the accident.

Investigation and Road Safety Concerns

The police have registered a case and initiated a formal investigation into the cause of the crash. While the initial assumption is driver error due to loss of control, mechanical failure and other factors will also be examined. Authorities have also indicated they will review the safety measures on this particular stretch of road, which has been the site of accidents in the past.

Condolences and Call for Safer Roads

The tragedy has cast a pall over the Independence Day weekend in the region. Local leaders have expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and have urged the government to improve road safety infrastructure, especially on high-risk hill routes.