Tragic Road Accident on NH-10: near Kirney Four of Sikkim Dead, Three Injured as Wagon R Falls into Gorge

KalimNews, October 3, 2025, Malli : A heart-wrenching accident occurred on National Highway 10 near Melli Kirney, under Kalimpong Police Station, at approximately 7:30 pm on Friday evening. A Wagon R (No. SK01T 5989) plunged into a gorge approximately 50 meters deep, resulting in the tragic deaths of four individuals and leaving three others with serious injuries.

The vehicle was traveling from Patharjhora towards Gangtok when it veered off the road and fell into the deep gorge near Melli in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal. The crash was devastating, claiming the lives of four people on the spot. Three others sustained critical injuries and were rushed to Melli Sikkim Hospital for immediate treatment. While the investigation is ongoing, initial reports suggest the crash may have been caused by the glare from an oncoming vehicle’s high beam lights, though authorities are continuing to look into all possible factors, according to Kalimpong police.

Details of the Deceased:

• Kamal Subba (Male, 44 Years) – Driver

• Samira Subba (Female, 20 Years) – Daughter of the driver

• Januka Darjee (Female, 35 Years)

• Nita Gurung (Female, 58 Years)

Details of the Injured:

• Sunita Thapa (Female, 40 Years)

• Sandria Rai (Female, 8 Years)

• Samuel Darjee (Male, 5 Years)

Local authorities, along with volunteers from the Rangpo Nagar Panchayat, Rangpo All Taxi Driver Welfare Association, and Teesta Rangit Rescue Centre, swiftly responded to the scene. Despite the steep and challenging terrain, the local rescue teams worked tirelessly to extract the survivors and transport them to safety. The critically injured, including the two young children, were first taken to Melli Sikkim Hospital and later referred to STNM Hospital in Gangtok for advanced care.

The tragic event has prompted swift investigations by local authorities. While the exact cause of the accident remains under scrutiny, initial reports suggest that the glare from oncoming vehicle dipper lights may have caused the driver to lose control. Authorities are also exploring potential safety improvements for the NH-10 stretch between Melli and Kirney, a section known for its difficult terrain.

The community has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life, with many citizens and local organizations offering their support to the bereaved families. The Teesta Rangit Rescue Centre has been particularly commended for its prompt and effective action during the rescue operation.

As the investigation continues, authorities have urged travelers to exercise extreme caution while traveling along NH-10, especially on its dangerous stretches near Kirney and Melli. The tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in road travel through hilly regions, where unpredictable weather and narrow roads can quickly lead to disasters.

Local authorities have pledged to improve road safety measures in the area, including reviewing road conditions, signage, and emergency response protocols to prevent similar accidents in the future.

The loss of four lives in this horrific crash has cast a shadow over the town of Gangtok and its surrounding areas, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safety precautions on this treacherous route.