A tragic bus accident claimed the lives of at least eight people near Jiwan Singh Wala village in Bathinda on Friday. The private bus, en route from Talwandi Sabo to Bathinda city, skidded off a bridge and plunged into a drain amidst heavy rain, leaving several injured.
Bathinda Urban MLA Jagroop Singh Gill confirmed the death toll, stating that five passengers died on the spot while three succumbed to their injuries during treatment. Gill received updates on the incident during his visit to Shaheed Bhai Mani Singh Civil Hospital, where 18 injured passengers are currently undergoing treatment.
Rescue Efforts and Investigation
A massive rescue operation involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, and villagers is underway. Eyewitnesses reported that the bus crashed through the bridge railing before falling into the drain.
Bathinda Deputy Commissioner Showkat Ahmad Parray lauded the villagers for their quick response in saving lives immediately after the accident. District officials, including DC Parray and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Amneet Kondal, arrived at the scene to oversee rescue efforts.
Authorities are working to determine the total number of passengers aboard the bus and the cause of the accident. Officials noted that it was raining at the time of the mishap, which may have contributed to the vehicle skidding.
Victims and Investigation
The identities of the deceased are yet to be confirmed by the district authorities. A detailed investigation is ongoing to ascertain the circumstances leading to the tragedy.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, with calls for improved road safety measures and infrastructure maintenance. Further updates are awaited as rescue operations continue.
Sources By Agencies