Tragedy on Badrinath Highway: Tempo Traveller Plunges Into Alaknanda, Several Feared Dead

India News: A devastating road accident struck Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district early Tuesday morning when a Tempo Traveller, reportedly carrying pilgrims and tourists, veered off the Badrinath Highway and plunged into the fast-flowing Alaknanda River. The accident occurred near Nandaprayag around 7:30 AM, on a treacherous stretch known for its sharp bends and narrow lanes. Initial reports suggest the vehicle lost control while navigating a curve, possibly due to overspeeding or brake failure. Rescue teams from the SDRF, NDRF, and local police quickly reached the scene, but strong river currents made recovery operations difficult. Several people are feared dead, while efforts continue to locate survivors. The incident has raised fresh concerns over road safety on the high-altitude pilgrimage route.

Deadly Plunge Sparks Panic

The incident occurred near the village of Nandaprayag, around 7:30 AM, when the vehicle lost control at a sharp curve. Witnesses said the Traveller appeared to be speeding before crashing through the barrier and tumbling into the swollen Alaknanda River below. Rescue operations were launched immediately by the SDRF and local administration. At least 12 people were feared to be inside the vehicle. The river’s swift current complicated search and recovery efforts, sparking panic among locals and relatives.

Driver Lost Vehicle Control

According to initial police statements, the driver may have been fatigued or distracted, leading to the loss of control on the notoriously dangerous stretch. Eyewitnesses claim the vehicle swerved erratically just moments before the crash. Authorities are examining brake failure as another possible cause. The Tempo Traveller was reportedly en route from Haridwar to Badrinath, carrying pilgrims and tourists. Road safety norms on hilly terrains are again under sharp focus following the crash.

Swift Rescue Teams Deployed

Uttarakhand SDRF, NDRF, and local police rushed to the scene and began a challenging rescue operation. Divers, rafts, and drones were deployed to trace the wreckage in the fast-flowing river. Officials confirmed that two bodies were recovered within hours, while the rest remained untraced. Heavy monsoon rainfall in recent days has increased the river’s turbulence. Authorities are also taking help from hydro project staff stationed downstream for logistical support and river monitoring.

Pilgrims Among The Victims

Early reports suggest the passengers included pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, heading for the sacred Badrinath Dham. Many had boarded the vehicle late Monday night and were scheduled to reach by noon. Families of the missing have been informed, and special helplines have been set up in Haridwar and Rishikesh. Officials are collecting identification details through mobile tracking and hotel logs. Tension and grief prevailed at several pilgrim camps along the route.

Chief Minister Orders Probe

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and announced an immediate ex gratia of ₹2 lakh to the families of the deceased. He has also ordered a high-level probe into the cause of the accident and stressed the need for stricter monitoring of commercial vehicles on mountain roads. A 24-hour control room has been activated for live updates. The CM is expected to visit the site later today.

Highway Risks Under Scrutiny

The Badrinath Highway has long been marked as a high-risk route due to sharp bends, narrow lanes, and unpredictable weather conditions. Locals say this particular stretch near Nandaprayag has claimed many lives in recent years. Activists are calling for urgent infrastructure upgrades, better signage, and trained hill drivers. With pilgrim traffic peaking in June, the administration is under pressure to implement stronger safety protocols immediately to prevent further loss of life.