A Himachal Pradesh Road Accident: An HRTC bus overturned on the Nalagarh-Swarghat route in Solan district due to heavy rainfall, injuring over 20 passengers. Local residents and the administration immediately initiated rescue operations.
Solan Accident: A major road accident occurred in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday, raising several questions about road safety during the monsoon season. A Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus veered off the road and overturned amidst heavy rain on the Nalagarh-Swarghat route. More than 20 passengers were injured in the accident, while others sustained minor injuries.
How the Accident Occurred
The accident happened near Golajmala area of Nalagarh when the HRTC bus, originating from the Sarkaghat depot, was en route to Swarghat carrying passengers. According to eyewitnesses, the bus suddenly went out of control and plunged down a deep gorge along the roadside as it approached a sharp turn. Slippery road conditions due to the rain made it difficult for the driver to control the vehicle.
Panic Among Passengers
Panic erupted among the passengers as the bus overturned. Several passengers fell from their seats, and some were trapped inside the bus. Hearing the screams of the passengers, local villagers rushed to the scene and began rescue operations. They broke the windows to get the passengers out and helped the injured.
Local Residents Played a Major Role
Upon receiving information about the incident, local residents immediately reached the spot. Without delay, they pulled the injured out of the bus and took them to the nearest health center for first aid. Their promptness enabled timely treatment for several seriously injured passengers.
Administration and Police Arrived on the Scene
Upon receiving information about the accident, the Nalagarh police station and the district administration team reached the spot. The police immediately secured the road and controlled traffic. All the injured were taken to the Nalagarh Civil Hospital by ambulance.
More Than 20 Passengers Injured
Doctors at Nalagarh Hospital said that more than 20 passengers were injured in the accident, some of whom had serious head and spinal injuries. Some of the injured were discharged after initial treatment, while others were kept under observation. If needed, some of the injured may be referred to PGI Chandigarh.
Police Initiate Investigation
The police have launched an investigation into the accident. Preliminary investigations revealed that either the bus brakes failed suddenly or the road was too slippery. However, the police are also investigating whether the accident was caused by the driver's negligence or speeding. The accident-damaged bus has been removed from the spot and sent for forensic examination.
SDM's Statement: Relief Work Ongoing
SDM Nalagarh Raj Kumar visited the accident site and took stock of the condition of the injured. He said that relief work was carried out rapidly and all the injured passengers were provided with immediate medical assistance. The administration is providing all possible assistance to the injured and their families.
