Bus falls in Alaknanda river in Rudraprayag; 1 dies, several go missing

A devastating accident occurred today in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district when an 18-seater bus carrying passengers plunged into the turbulent waters of the Alaknanda River. The incident, which took place in the Gholthir area, has resulted in at least one fatality and left seven others injured.

According to Garhwal Divisional Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey, rescue teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and local administration were immediately dispatched to the scene. Their swift response has been crucial in the ongoing search and rescue operation. So far, seven individuals have been successfully pulled from the wreckage and the river.

The bus, which was reportedly carrying 18 people, skidded off the road and fell into the deep gorge, landing in the fast-flowing river below. The exact cause of the accident is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest the possibility of a mechanical failure or the driver losing control of the vehicle on the treacherous mountain road.

Witnesses at the scene described a chaotic and terrifying situation, with the bus's descent into the river happening in a matter of seconds. Local residents were among the first to respond, assisting authorities in the initial rescue efforts before specialized teams arrived. Their bravery and quick actions are being credited with helping to save lives.