Bilaspur Landslide: 18 passengers killed after debris fell on bus in Himachal; President and PM Modi expressed grief; compensation announced

National news: A passenger bus was hit by a landslide in the Jhanduta area of ​​Bilaspur district in Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday, October 7, resulting in multiple casualties. Around 30 people were on board the bus when heavy debris and rocks slid down the mountainside and fell on the bus. According to local authorities, 18 people have been confirmed dead so far, and several others are seriously injured. Relief and rescue operations were immediately launched, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local rescue teams rushed to the scene to rescue passengers trapped in the debris. The injured have been admitted to nearby hospitals, some of whom are reported to be in critical condition.

PM Modi expressed condolences 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over the tragic accident and announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh each from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri also expressed deep sorrow over the accident and directed that rescue operations be expedited.

President Draupadi Murmu expressed her heartfelt condolences to the affected families and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed grief over the severity of the accident and commended the prompt action of the rescue teams.

Landslide Chaos In Himachal Pradesh

Natural disasters like landslides are common in the mountainous regions of Himachal Pradesh and pose a serious threat to traffic and life, especially during heavy rains or unstable weather. District administration and police officials have coordinated relief and rescue operations, clearing debris and ensuring the safe movement of other vehicles on the route. An investigation into the exact circumstances of the landslide is expected to begin soon.

Bus Accident In Himachal Pradesh

Meanwhile, a private bus also veered off the road in Palampur, Kangra district, injuring six passengers. They were immediately admitted to the Palampur Civil Hospital, and an investigation into the cause of the accident has been launched. Both incidents have once again highlighted the need for safe transportation and vigilance against natural disasters in the mountainous regions of Himachal Pradesh. Authorities and rescue teams are working tirelessly at the scene and will issue updates as further information becomes available.