At least eight lives were tragically lost in a bus accident in Punjab’s Bathinda district on Friday, December 27, 2024. The mishap occurred near Jiwan Singh Wala village when a private bus plunged into a drain after crashing through the railing of a bridge. The accident left the region in shock and prompted immediate rescue operations involving local authorities, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and concerned villagers.
Fatal Accident: What Happened?
The ill-fated bus was en route from Talwandi Sabo to Bathinda city when it skidded off the road, possibly due to wet conditions caused by rainfall. Around five passengers lost their lives on the spot, while three succumbed to injuries during treatment at Shaheed Bhai Mani Singh Civil Hospital in Bathinda.
Bathinda Urban MLA Jagroop Singh Gill confirmed the casualties and said, “Nearly 18 injured passengers are receiving medical care. Health officials have been instructed to ensure proper treatment for the victims.”
Eyewitnesses reported that the bus crashed through the bridge railing and fell into a filthy drain. The bus was submerged, making it challenging for rescuers to retrieve the trapped passengers.
Rescue Operations in Full Swing
The rescue operation commenced immediately after the accident, with local villagers playing a crucial role in saving lives before official teams arrived. Bathinda Deputy Commissioner (DC) Showkat Ahmad Parray and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Amneet Kondal were among the first officials to reach the site and oversee the operations.
The NDRF, police, and fire department worked tirelessly with local volunteers to rescue the injured and recover the deceased. However, the exact number of passengers onboard at the time of the accident is still under investigation.
Challenging Weather Conditions
District officials revealed that heavy rainfall was underway when the accident occurred, which may have contributed to the bus skidding off the bridge. Bathinda Deputy Commissioner Parray noted, “Villagers rushed to the spot as soon as the accident occurred and managed to save several lives. A detailed investigation is being conducted to determine the exact cause of the mishap.”
The rain not only hampered visibility but also complicated the rescue operations, as the bus was partially submerged in the water-filled drain.
Authorities Respond
Top civil and police officials arrived swiftly to assess the situation and coordinate rescue efforts. “The identities of the deceased are yet to be confirmed, and a thorough investigation is underway,” SSP Kondal said. The local administration has assured the public that every effort is being made to provide timely medical assistance to the injured and to identify the victims.
The Need for Enhanced Safety Measures
This tragic accident raises questions about road safety, particularly during adverse weather conditions. The incident underscores the importance of maintaining infrastructure like bridge railings and implementing stricter safety protocols for vehicles. It also highlights the role of emergency response systems and the need for public awareness about road safety, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall.
A Community United in Grief
As Bathinda mourns the loss of lives in this tragic accident, the efforts of local villagers and authorities in the rescue operation stand as a testament to community solidarity. The focus now shifts to providing care for the injured, supporting the families of the victims, and learning lessons to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The investigation into the cause of the accident will be crucial in addressing potential safety lapses and ensuring safer travel for all.