Tragedy Strikes as Landslide Claims 18 Lives in Himachal

Tragedy Strikes as Landslide Claims 18 Lives in Himachal

At least 18 passengers lost their lives when a private bus was hit by a massive landslide in Himachal Pradesh's Bilaspur district on Tuesday evening. The incident occurred in the Bhalughat area of the Jhandutta assembly segment. The bus, which was carrying 30 to 35 passengers, was en route from Marotan to Ghumarwin when the landslide struck.

Rescue operations are currently underway, with police, Home Guards, and district administration officials on-site. Heavy machinery has been deployed to clear the debris and assist in rescuing those trapped inside the bus. So far, 15 bodies have been recovered from the wreckage, and a policeman involved in the rescue efforts stated, "The whole mountain came crashing down on the bus, and chances of survival of the passengers are bleak."

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed his sorrow over the incident and has been in constant communication with the district administration. He has directed officials to expedite rescue operations and ensure that the injured are promptly transported to hospitals for treatment. The Chief Minister also extended his condolences to the families of the victims.

The region has been experiencing intermittent rains since Monday, which may have contributed to the landslide. Rescue teams continue to work diligently in challenging conditions to recover any remaining passengers and provide assistance to those affected by this tragic event.