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At least 14 tourists from Noida were killed, and 12 others were injured when their tempo traveller fell into the Alaknanda River in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand. The accident happened on the Rishikesh-Badrinath national highway. The vehicle, carrying 26 people, skidded off the road and plunged 150-200 meters into a gorge. 

Details of the incident

Uttarakhand State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) commandant Manikant Mishra reported that 10 people died on the spot. Two more succumbed to their injuries at AIIMS Rishikesh, and another two died at the Rudraprayag district hospital. Mishra warned that the death toll might rise as some of the injured are in serious condition. Inspector-general of police, Garhwal, Karan Singh Nagnyal, mentioned that the tourists were on their way to visit Chopta and most were residents of Delhi. The accident occurred around 11 am, and police and SDRF teams quickly arrived to start relief and rescue operations. The vehicle landed on the banks of the Alaknanda River, about 250 meters below the road.

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Response and condolences

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami ordered an investigation into the incident and ensured that the injured received necessary medical treatment. He also visited AIIMS Rishikesh to meet the injured and their families, assuring them of the government's support. Seven severely injured individuals were transported to AIIMS Rishikesh via heli-ambulance on Dhami's instructions. District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar confirmed that rescue efforts were prompt and ongoing.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the tragic accident, calling it "heartbreaking" and offering condolences to the families of the victims. He also wished a speedy recovery for the injured. President Droupadi Murmu and Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed their condolences. 

The incident highlights the need for caution on mountainous roads and the importance of quick emergency response. As investigations continue, efforts are focused on supporting the injured and the families of those who lost their lives.