MANDI: A private Volvo bus carrying around 50 tourists from Delhi to Manali overturned near 17 Miles mark between Manali and Patlikuhal in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh early Monday (May 5, 2025) morning.
One person sustained minor injuries while all other passengers escaped unhurt, preventing what could have been a major tragedy.
According to initial reports, the accident occurred around 6.15 am when the driver of the Volvo bus (registration number HR47G-0011) lost control over it near a curve and the vehicle overturned on the roadside. The vehicle was en route to Manali.
Panic among tourists, locals rush to help
As the bus flipped, screams and panic broke out among the passengers. Local residents quickly reached the scene and informed the police and administration.
By the time rescue teams arrived, the locals had already helped the tourists exit the overturned vehicle safely.
The person who sustained injuries was immediately taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. The remaining tourists were accommodated in an alternate bus and sent toward their destination without further delay.
Major tragedy averted
Eyewitnesses said the situation could have turned worse had the bus fallen into the adjacent gorge.
The quick response of locals and the timely evacuation played a crucial role in averting a bigger disaster.
The police have started inquest proceedings even as the district administration has issued an advisory, urging vehicle drivers to maintain caution on hilly roads to prevent such incidents in the future.
Munish Sood
