27 Indian bus passengers killed, 16 injured in Nepal accident

New Delhi, Aug 23: At least 27 people have lost their lives, and more than a dozen others have been injured after a bus carrying Indian passengers plunged into the Marsyangdi River in Abu Khaireni, Nepal, according to local officials.

The bus, which bore the Indian registration number UP 53 FT 7623, reportedly lost control near Aina Pahara, veering off the road and tumbling 150 meters down a cliff landing on the riverbank as reported by Nepal’s Himalayan Times.

The bus was en route from Pokhara to Kathmandu, carrying 43 people, all Indian nationals, including the driver and his assistant. The bus had entered Nepal on August 20 through the Belahiya checkpoint in the Rupandehi district, equipped with an eight-day route permit, according to police reports.

The Indian Embassy in Nepal confirmed the incident on social media, stating, “An Indian tourist bus travelling from Pokhara to Kathmandu with around 43 Indians fell 150 meters into Marsyangdi River today,” and assured that the embassy is working closely with local authorities on the rescue efforts. An emergency relief number, 977-98511 07021, was also provided for those seeking assistance.

Following the accident, a rescue operation was launched, with personnel from the Armed Police Force, including divers, Nepal Police, and the Nepali Army, supporting the rescue operations.

However, the steep and challenging terrain complicated the rescue efforts. I

A Nepal Army helicopter, carrying a medical team, was also dispatched to assist at the accident site. The Pokhara to Kathmandu bus route is popular among Indian tourists and pilgrims.

In response to the incident, Randhir Jaiswal, the MEA spokesperson expressed deep sorrow, stating, “We are deeply pained by the tragic death of 27 Indian nationals in a road accident in Tanahun district of Nepal. We convey our deepest condolences. Our Embassy is extending all possible help in the matter. Sixteen people who were injured in the accident have been airlifted and are presently undergoing treatment in a hospital.”

The embassy has also set up emergency helpline numbers for the affected families to seek assistance. They remain in constant contact with local authorities and the families involved, making arrangements for the early transportation of the mortal remains to India. The spokesperson further added that regular updates would be provided on the situation. The embassy’s 24/7 helpline numbers are 977-9851107021, 977-9851316807, and 977-9749833292 (all available on WhatsApp).

The Indian Embassy in Nepal also tweeted, “We are grieved to confirm the death of 27 Indians in the unfortunate road accident in Tanahun. The remaining 16 passengers have been airlifted to Kathmandu for further treatment at TU Teaching Hospital. The embassy mourns the loss of lives and prays for the early recovery of the injured.” The tweet emphasized that the embassy continues to maintain close contact with local authorities and hospital staff to ensure the best possible care for the injured and the swift repatriation of the deceased’s remains to India.”