14 Pilgrims From Maharashtra Killed In Nepal As Bus Veers Off Into River, Many Missing

Lucknow/Mumbai, August 23 (TNA) A bus carrying Indian pilgrims from Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district veered off the Prithvi Highway in Nepal and fell into the Marsyangdi River when it was en route from Pokhara to Kathmandu, the Nepalese capital. The accident resulted in the deaths of at least 14 people, with many succumbing to their injuries later. Additionally, 16 people were injured, and several others are still missing.

Rescue efforts were carried out by the Nepal Armed Police Force and local authorities. The bus fell approximately 150 meters from the highway, making the rescue operation challenging. The Maharashtra government has coordinated with the Ministry of Defence to arrange a special flight to repatriate the bodies of the deceased and bring back the injured.

The pilgrims were travelling to visit religious sites in Nepal. The bus, bearing an Uttar Pradesh state number plate, was part of a pilgrimage tour organized from Gorakhpur. Preliminary reports suggest that the accident might have been caused by the bus veering off the road, possibly due to driver fatigue or mechanical failure. Poorly maintained roads and vehicles are common issues in Nepal, contributing to frequent accidents.