Tragedy on the Badrinath Highway in Rudraprayag: Tempo Submerged in Alaknanda River
Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand – A devastating accident has struck the region, leaving a trail of sorrow. A tempo carrying passengers plunged into the Alaknanda River after veering off the Badrinath Highway near Dhaulti. Tragically, three passengers have died, while nine others have been rescued. Seven individuals remain missing as a large-scale rescue operation continues.
Details of the Incident Emerge
According to reports, the incident occurred when the tempo was carrying approximately 18 to 20 people. Heavy rainfall and poor road conditions are believed to have contributed to the driver losing control, leading to the vehicle falling into a deep ravine and subsequently submerging in the raging Alaknanda River. The b current of the river exacerbated the severity of the accident, with several passengers being ejected from the vehicle and trapped in the surrounding hilly terrain.
Chief Minister Dhami Expresses Grief
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressed deep condolences over the Rudraprayag tragedy. In a tweet, he stated that SDRF and other rescue teams are working at “war footing” to carry out relief and rescue operations. He confirmed he is in close contact with local administration and officials, and is praying for the safe recovery of all injured individuals.
Rescue Operation Underway
Teams from SDRF, ITBP, local police, and administration are actively engaged at the scene. Local officials have indicated that the b river current is hindering rescue efforts in certain areas. Colonel Virendra Singh Rawat of ITBP stated that searches for the missing passengers and the tempo will be conducted in areas where the water flow is calmer. The force possesses specialized equipment to ensure the search operation proceeds swiftly and safely.
Identified Victims and Status of Missing Passengers
Three passengers have been confirmed dead. Nine individuals have been safely rescued, with several receiving immediate medical attention and being subsequently referred to hospitals for further treatment. Seven people remain unaccounted for, and authorities are diligently searching for them, deploying search teams along the riverbanks and in the surrounding areas.
Update from the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority
Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman confirmed that the accident occurred near Gharthir in Rudraprayag district. He stated that the tempo was carrying approximately 20 people, including the driver. Rescue efforts have resulted in three fatalities and the successful evacuation of eight individuals. The search for the remaining passengers continues.
