Bus Accident – 18 Killed After Vehicle Plunges Into Trishuli River
Bus Accident – A passenger bus traveling overnight from Pokhara to Kathmandu veered off the highway and plunged into the Trishuli River in the early hours of Monday, leaving at least 18 people dead and dozens injured.
Crash Occurs Near Benighat Rorang
The accident took place around 1:15 a.m. local time near Chinadhara, close to Charaundi in Ward 3 of Benighat Rorang Rural Municipality. According to local authorities, the bus lost control along the riverside stretch and fell directly into the fast-flowing Trishuli River.
Officials confirmed that the vehicle was carrying more than 35 passengers at the time of the incident. The route between Pokhara and Kathmandu is considered one of the country’s busiest highways, frequently used by both local commuters and long-distance travelers.
Casualties Confirmed by Police
Dhading District Traffic Police Chief Shishir Thapa stated that 18 bodies have been recovered so far. Rescue teams continued searching the crash site amid challenging conditions, with authorities warning that the toll could change as operations proceed.
The injured passengers, numbering at least 25, were transported to nearby hospitals for urgent medical care. Some are reported to be in critical condition, while others sustained moderate injuries.
Rescue Operation Faces Nighttime Challenges
The crash occurred in darkness, complicating immediate rescue efforts. Strong river currents and limited visibility slowed down the initial response. Emergency teams had to rely on portable lighting equipment to carry out search and recovery operations along the riverbank.
Personnel from the Nepali Army, Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, and local residents joined hands in the rescue mission. Divers and emergency responders worked through the early morning hours to retrieve victims and assist survivors trapped inside or around the submerged vehicle.
Rajkumar Thakuri, Chair of the Highway Rescue Management Committee, confirmed that coordination between multiple agencies was ongoing to ensure swift medical evacuation and recovery efforts.
Ongoing Investigation Into Cause
Authorities have launched a preliminary investigation to determine the cause of the accident. While officials have not yet confirmed what led to the vehicle leaving the roadway, they indicated that the mountainous terrain and nighttime travel conditions may have been contributing factors.
The Pokhara-Kathmandu highway runs alongside steep cliffs and riverbanks in several sections, making certain stretches particularly vulnerable to accidents, especially during low visibility hours.
Police officials said further details would be released once a full assessment is completed, including technical inspection of the vehicle and statements from survivors.
Community in Mourning
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves across the region, particularly among families awaiting news of loved ones traveling on the bus. Local authorities are working to identify the victims and inform their relatives.
Emergency services remain at the site as recovery operations continue. Officials have urged motorists to exercise caution while driving along river-adjacent highways, especially during nighttime travel.
More information is expected as rescue teams complete their search and authorities finalize casualty figures.