A bus overturning on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway injured 33 tourists from West Bengal today. The accident occurred near Ramban, where the sleeper bus, with registration number WB39K-2929, was transporting passengers from Srinagar to Jammu.
According to local sources, the bus had a seating capacity of 58 but was carrying 55 passengers at the time of the mishap. Eyewitnesses reported that the bus lost control and rolled over, causing injuries to several individuals.
Locals, along with police officials, quickly initiated a rescue operation. They transported the injured to the District Hospital in Ramban for immediate medical attention. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with many passengers trapped inside the bus.
Local authorities confirmed that all injured tourists received urgent care, and emergency services remained on the scene to assist with the situation. The severity of the injuries reported varied, and some passengers required further evaluation due to their condition.
The police have taken cognizance of the incident and have launched an investigation to ascertain the causes behind the bus overturning. Preliminary findings will determine if any mechanical failure or driver error contributed to the accident.
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway is notorious for its challenging driving conditions, especially during adverse weather. Authorities have raised concerns about road safety for tourists in the region, urging transport companies to adhere to safety protocols.
As this tragic incident unfolds, locals and tourism agencies emphasize the need for enhanced safety measures. Tour operators are reviewing their procedures to ensure passenger safety on such sensitive routes. This unfortunate event has reignited discussions around the importance of road safety, particularly for tourist transport vehicles in hilly terrains.
