14 Dead, 16 Injured as Indian Tourist Bus Plunges into River in Nepal

Kathmandu, Aug 23 : A tragic accident occurred on Friday when a passenger bus from India plunged 150 meters into the Marshyangdi River in Nepal, resulting in at least 14 fatalities and 16 injuries, according to local media reports.

The Indian Embassy in Nepal reported that the bus, which was transporting around 43 Indian tourists from Pokhara to Kathmandu, fell into the river in Anbu Khaireni, located in Central Nepal’s Tanahun district. The bus, identified with a UP registration number, was carrying 40 passengers at the time of the accident.

The Armed Police Force (APF) confirmed that 14 bodies have been recovered from the accident site, and 16 injured passengers have been taken to a local hospital. The severity of the crash has left the bus severely damaged, as shown in preliminary images and videos shared on social media.

The Indian Embassy has been coordinating with local authorities to support relief and rescue operations. An emergency relief number, +977-9851107021, has been issued for immediate assistance.

Eyewitnesses reported that the bus, operated by Keserwani Pariwahan, was carrying pilgrims from Maharashtra who had spent two days in Pokhara before heading to Kathmandu. Rescue efforts have been complicated by the severe terrain, with helicopters initially unable to locate the wreckage. Nepali authorities and the army are actively involved in the ongoing rescue operations.

The accident occurred amidst Nepal’s monsoon season, which has brought heavy rainfall, leading to floods and landslides across the region. Last month, five Indians were killed in a landslide in Nepal’s Chitwan district, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with the current weather conditions. On July 12, heavy rainfall caused two buses carrying 65 passengers to be swept away in the Simatal area.

Authorities continue to work on the ground to manage the aftermath of the latest tragedy, with further details expected as the situation develops.