Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand | June 26, 2025

• Jun 25, 2025

In a heart-wrenching incident that has shaken Uttarakhand and the nation, a bus carrying dozens of pilgrims plunged into the Alaknanda River on the Rudraprayag highway early Thursday morning. The tragic accident occurred near the Timli Bend, a notorious stretch known for its sharp turns and steep gorge.

What Happened?

Eyewitnesses and local sources reported that the bus was en route from Haridwar to Kedarnath, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. The vehicle was carrying over 35 passengers, most of whom were pilgrims from various parts of India, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh.

Around 8:45 AM, the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, possibly due to brake failure or over-speeding on a downhill stretch. Despite attempts to steer the bus to safety, it broke through the safety barriers and plunged approximately 250 feet into the Alaknanda River below.

Massive Rescue Operation Underway

As soon as news of the accident broke, emergency response teams, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, and paramedics, rushed to the scene.

Due to the challenging terrain and strong river currents, the rescue operation has proven extremely difficult. Divers were deployed to search for survivors and bodies in the water, while heavy machinery was brought in to stabilize the wreckage lodged between rocks in the river.

Helicopters from the Indian Air Force and local authorities are assisting in aerial surveillance and evacuating critically injured survivors to hospitals in Srinagar (Garhwal) and Rishikesh.

Casualties and Injuries

As of now, 14 people have been confirmed dead, while over 20 have been injured, many of them critically. Several individuals remain missing, feared to have been swept away by the river's strong currents. Officials caution that the death toll may rise as the rescue operation continues.

The identities of the deceased are being verified, and families are being contacted with the help of mobile records and Aadhaar-linked databases.

Government Response and Compensation

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep grief over the incident and has announced an ex-gratia compensation of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹1 lakh for the injured.

He also directed officials to ensure top-tier medical treatment for the injured and ordered a high-level probe to determine the exact cause of the accident. The Chief Minister may visit the site later today.

Recurring Risk on Himalayan Roads

This tragic accident has once again brought to light the dangers faced by pilgrims and travelers on the winding, often poorly maintained mountain roads of Uttarakhand. While road-widening projects and safety barriers are being implemented across Char Dham routes, experts say much more needs to be done.

According to data from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, over 1,200 road accidents occurred in the hill districts of Uttarakhand last year, many of them involving vehicles carrying pilgrims.

Nation Mourns, Condolences Pour In

Leaders from across the political spectrum, religious organizations, and public figures have expressed shock and grief over the tragedy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to social media, stating:

“Deeply saddened by the tragic bus accident in Rudraprayag. My thoughts are with the families who lost their loved ones. Prayers for the injured. Rescue efforts are underway with full force.”

Ongoing Investigation

An FIR has been lodged, and a team from the Transport Department is on site inspecting the remains of the bus. Preliminary investigations suggest possible mechanical failure, though driver negligence is also being considered. Survivors will be providing statements once they are stabilized.