CHAMBA: In a tragic road accident, eight people, including two children, lost their lives after a vehicle plunged nearly 500 metres into a deep gorge in Himachal Pradesh's Chamba district.
According to officials, the accident occurred late Friday night on the Bairagarh–Sach Pass–Killar road in the remote Churah subdivision. The victims were travelling in a taxi when the vehicle reportedly veered off the road and crashed into the gorge.
Earlier, authorities had reported that eight persons, including two children and tourists from Kolkata and Bengaluru, along with the taxi driver, were missing. It was feared that their vehicle had fallen into a deep ravine along the Sach Pass route.
After local residents alerted the administration, rescue teams launched a search operation in the difficult mountainous terrain.
The wreckage of the vehicle was eventually located deep inside the gorge, confirming the worst fears. All eight occupants were found dead at the scene.
The deceased included tourists who had come to Himachal Pradesh to enjoy the scenic beauty of the mountains.
Police have registered a case and are investigating the cause of the accident.
The tragedy has once again highlighted the risks associated with travelling on the narrow and treacherous mountain roads of the region, particularly around the high-altitude Sach Pass area.
Authorities have expressed condolences to the bereaved families and assured all possible assistance.
