A tragic road accident in Maharashtra’s Devgai Ghat area claimed the lives of two students and left more than 50 others injured after an overloaded bus plunged nearly 100 feet into a deep gorge on Sunday evening.
According to police officials, the bus — carrying tribal students returning home after Diwali holidays — lost control on a sharp curve near Amlibari in the Nandurbar district, before tumbling into the valley. Preliminary reports suggest that the bus was overcrowded and traveling at a high speed on a narrow mountain stretch.
Rescue Operations Underway
Local residents, police, and disaster response teams rushed to the site immediately after the crash. Rescue efforts continued late into the night, with authorities deploying cranes, ambulances, and local volunteers to evacuate passengers trapped inside the mangled bus.
“It was a horrific scene. The bus had overturned multiple times before landing in the gorge. Villagers helped pull out the injured even before the ambulances arrived,” said a local eyewitness.
The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals in Akkalkuwa and Nandurbar, while those critically hurt were transferred to Dhule Civil Hospital for specialized treatment.
Victims Were Returning From Diwali Break
The ill-fated bus was reportedly carrying students from tribal hostels and educational institutions who were returning to their campuses after the Diwali vacation. Officials confirmed that most passengers were between 15 and 22 years old.
District authorities have announced ex-gratia compensation for the families of the deceased and assured that all medical expenses for the injured will be covered by the government.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. The administration is providing full medical support and financial assistance to the affected families,” said a senior Nandurbar district official.
Preliminary Investigation and Possible Negligence
Early investigations indicate mechanical failure and overloading as probable causes of the accident. Police said the bus, which had a seating capacity of 35, was carrying more than 70 passengers, many of whom were standing inside the aisle.
Authorities are now verifying whether the vehicle had valid permits and safety clearances. The Regional Transport Office (RTO) has been directed to inspect the bus company’s operations and determine accountability.
“We are looking into negligence at multiple levels — from vehicle maintenance to route approval,” said Nandurbar SP.
Public Reaction and Condolences
The tragic incident has sparked widespread grief across Maharashtra, with social media flooded with condolence messages. State leaders, including Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, expressed sorrow and assured a comprehensive inquiry into the mishap.
Many have also raised concerns about road safety in rural and hilly regions, calling for stricter enforcement of transport regulations and better infrastructure for tribal districts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Where did the bus accident occur?
In the Devgai Ghat area near Amlibari, in Maharashtra’s Nandurbar district.
Q2: How many casualties were reported?
Two students died and over 50 passengers were injured.
Q3: What caused the accident?
Preliminary reports point to overloading and speeding on a hilly road stretch.
Q4: Who were the passengers?
Mostly tribal students returning after Diwali holidays.
Q5: What actions have authorities taken?
Rescue operations were conducted overnight, and an investigation into negligence has been launched.
Published on : 10th November
Published by : SMITA
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Source Credit : Reported by Anuj Sahebrao Rayate, Edited by Raunaq Lekhi — NDTV India News Desk