Tragic Bus Accident Near Andheri, Rangpo: At Least 5 Dead and Dozen Injured

KalimNews, Ramphu (Sikkim), November 30, 2024 – A deadly road accident occurred today when a bus named Quality skidded off the road and plunged into a ravine near Andheri, between Bhotey Bhir and Atal Bridge, Rangpo, under Lava Police Station's jurisdiction. The bus, traveling from Siliguri to Gangtok, went off the mountain road along NH 10 around 3:00 PM, leaving at least five including a woman dead and more than a dozen seriously injured.

Local authorities have confirmed the recovery of three bodies from the site, while other two died on the way to hospital, while at least 12 others have sustained serious injuries. The injured are receiving urgent treatment at Rangpo and Singtam Hospital and some have been referred to other Hospitals of SIkkim for further care. Emergency teams and local police from Sikkim and Kalimpong swiftly responded to assist survivors and manage the aftermath.

Eyewitnesses reported that the bus, navigating a narrow, winding section of the road, suddenly lost control. The timely response of local authorities and bystanders helped evacuate the injured.

"The situation is dire, and our teams are doing everything possible to ensure the injured receive prompt medical attention," said a senior official from Lava Police Station.

The bus was carrying passengers heading to Gangtok. The exact cause of the accident is under investigation. Authorities are reviewing whether the bus complied with safety standards, and a full investigation is underway. 

Local residents and officials have expressed condolences and are working together to support the victims' families.

The injured passengers, many in critical condition, are being treated at medical facilities in Sikkim, with some transferred to higher medical centers for specialized care. The condition of several victims remains critical.

As investigations continue, authorities of Sikkim are focusing on providing immediate support to the victims and ensuring future safety measures for travel along this hazardous route. Travelers have been urged to exercise caution, especially in adverse weather conditions.

This tragic incident has renewed concerns over the safety of bus travel on the difficult roads connecting Sikkim to neighboring states.