Rahul Chawla
The North News
Dehra, March 24
A major road accident was narrowly averted on Monday evening when a bus carrying 35 pilgrims from Jalandhar lost control and crashed into a hillside on the Mubarakpur–Ranital National Highway (NH-503) near Dhaliyara. The incident occurred around 5 pm at one of the dangerous sharp bends in the Dhaliyara stretch, which is known for frequent accidents. According to reports, the driver lost control of the vehicle while negotiating a steep turn. The bus broke through a roadside crash barrier before colliding with the hill.
Fortunately, the vehicle had already slowed down after hitting the crash barrier, preventing it from plunging into a deep gorge and averting what could have been a major tragedy. All passengers on board were pilgrims who had visited the Chintpurni Temple and were on their way to the Jwalamukhi Temple. Panic broke out at the scene following the crash, with passengers screaming for help. In a relief, all 35passengers escaped safely. Only one girl sustained minor injuries and was given first aid on the spot.
Local residents rushed to the scene immediately after the incident and assisted in rescue efforts. Police and administrative officials also arrived promptly to assess the situation. Residents of the area have once again raised concerns over the hazardous bends in Dhaliyara, stating that multiple accidents have occurred there in the past. They have urged authorities to implement stronger safety measures on the route to prevent such incidents in the future.
