Vehicle returning from Baisakhi celebrations overturns after reported technical fault; probe underway
Chandigarh, April 15: At least seven devotees were killed and more than two dozen others injured in a road accident near Fatehgarh Sahib in Punjab late Tuesday night. The victims were returning from Baisakhi celebrations at Shri Anandpur Sahib when the bus they were travelling in met with an accident.
Accident Near Destination
According to preliminary information, around 40 passengers were on board the bus, most of whom were headed to village Main Majra. The accident occurred approximately 1.5 to 2 kilometres before their destination, near Himmatpura village.
Officials said the bus reportedly developed a technical fault, following which the driver lost control. The vehicle collided with an electric pole and overturned.
Panic After Collision
Some injured passengers alleged that the bus may have come into contact with a live electric current after hitting the pole, leading to further panic among those inside. Authorities have not yet confirmed this aspect and are investigating the sequence of events.
Local residents were the first to reach the spot and began rescue efforts before police and emergency services arrived.
Rescue and Medical Response
Police and medical teams shifted the injured to nearby healthcare facilities. Around 12 people were taken to a hospital in Morinda, while nine were admitted to Fatehgarh Sahib Civil Hospital. Those critically injured have been referred to the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh.
Senior Superintendent of Police Dr. Shubham Aggarwal said the victims were close to their destination when the accident occurred. He added that the injured are currently stable and that an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause.
Victims and Local Impact
The deceased, including two brothers, were residents of village Main Majra and nearby areas. The incident has triggered grief across the region, especially as it occurred during a major religious occasion.
Religious Leader Expresses Condolence
Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj, Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, expressed condolences over the loss of lives and injuries. He offered prayers for the deceased and wished for the speedy recovery of those injured.
He also directed the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to provide assistance to the affected families.
Public Impact
The incident highlights concerns around road safety, vehicle maintenance, and emergency response, especially during large religious gatherings when travel volumes increase significantly.
Conclusion
Authorities have initiated a detailed investigation into the accident, while relief efforts continue for the injured. The tragedy has cast a shadow over post-Baisakhi celebrations in the region. (With inputs from H.S.)
Inputs & Images courtesy: Hindusthan Samachar (H.S.)
Edited by: Dikshita Bollu
Last Updated on: Wednesday, April 15, 2026 12:59 pm by Bollu Dikshitha | Published by: Bollu Dikshitha on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 12:59 pm | News Categories: India
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