The death toll from a bus accident in Uttarakhand's Almora district has risen to 36. According to local authorities, the 45-seater bus, en route from Pauri in Garhwal to Ramnagar in Kumaon, veered off the road and plunged into a 200-meter-deep gorge in Marchula this morning. Police and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are actively conducting rescue efforts at the scene. While many passengers died on the spot, at least nine succumbed to their injuries after being taken to the hospital. Three of the injured have been airlifted to AIIMS for advanced treatment. The bus, operated by the Garhwal Motor Owners' Union, is now under investigation as officials work to determine the cause of the tragedy. Authorities from Almora and Ramnagar are present on-site. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his sorrow over the tragic accident and has instructed the district administration to expedite the rescue and relief operations.

"Received very sad news of casualties of passengers in the unfortunate bus accident that took place in Marchula of Almora district. The district administration has been instructed to conduct relief and rescue operations swiftly," he shared on X. The chief minister further ordered the local administration and SDRF teams to transfer the injured to the nearest health centers promptly and to airlift those in critical condition as necessary. In addition, he directed the suspension of Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials in the area. As part of the government’s response, the chief minister has announced 400,000 INR in compensation for the families of those who lost their lives and 100,000 INR for those injured. A magisterial inquiry has also been ordered into the accident.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan