A major tragedy struck Himachal Pradesh’s Bilaspur district on Tuesday evening after a massive landslide in the Jhanduta Assembly constituency’s Barthin area buried a passenger bus under debris and falling rocks. According to initial reports, 18 people were killed on the spot, while several others sustained injuries. One child has been rescued safely. The accident occurred near Bilaspur district’s Bhallu Bridge when heavy debris and boulders suddenly rolled down the hillside, hitting the bus carrying around 30 passengers.
The Prime Minister’s Office posted on X: “Saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from the PMNRF will be given to the next of kin of each deceased, and the injured will be provided Rs. 50,000.”
Rescue and Relief Operations Underway
Local residents immediately launched rescue efforts, pulling survivors from the wreckage before authorities arrived. The injured are being rushed to Ghumarwin Community Health Centre and Jhanduta Hospital for treatment in Bilaspur district. Officials and disaster response teams have reached the site and are coordinating relief operations.
Officials said continuous rainfall in the region had weakened the hillside slope, leading to the collapse that caused the fatal accident. The administration is working to confirm the exact number and identities of the victims.
CM Sukhu Expresses Grief
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed deep sorrow over the incident, offering condolences to the families of those killed. He said the state government stands firmly with the affected families and assured all possible assistance.
“The government is with the victims in this difficult time and will provide every possible help,” CM Sukhu said, praying for the departed souls.
He also instructed district officials to intensify relief and rescue operations and ensure that all injured persons receive immediate medical attention. The Chief Minister is monitoring the situation closely from Shimla and remains in constant touch with the local administration.
