2 dead, 10 missing after bus carrying Char Dham pilgrims falls into river in Uttarakhand

By | June 26, 2025
Alaknanda River near Rudraprayag, site of Uttarakhand bus accident involving Char Dham pilgrims

On June 26, 2025, a bus carrying Char Dham pilgrims crashed into the Alaknanda River in Uttarakhand. The accident killed two people and left ten others missing. The vehicle was heading to Badrinath Dham, one of the four holy Char Dham shrines. It fell near Gholthir village in Rudraprayag district. Rescue teams continue searching for the missing passengers. Meanwhile, survivors receive urgent medical care.

What Happened?

The bus carried about 20 pilgrims, mainly from Rajasthan and Gujarat. They were on the Char Dham Yatra, a sacred journey covering Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Reports say the bus skidded off the Badrinath National Highway. It then plunged into the fast-flowing Alaknanda River near Gholthir village.

The crash shocked locals and devotees nationwide. Officials are investigating the cause. Possible reasons include slippery roads, driver error, or vehicle problems.

Quick Rescue Response

After the crash, the Uttarakhand State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and local villagers acted fast. They rescued seven passengers, including two children, from the river. These survivors are now receiving hospital treatment. Rescue workers keep searching for the ten missing people.

Strong river currents and rugged terrain slow rescue efforts. The teams use boats and divers to scour the river and nearby areas. Authorities ask people to avoid rumors. They want the rescue operation to proceed smoothly. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed sorrow and promised full government support.

Safety Issues in Pilgrim Transport

Millions take the Char Dham Yatra each year, traveling through risky mountain roads. This accident highlights safety problems faced by pilgrims on these journeys.

Narrow, winding roads and monsoon rains make travel dangerous. Overcrowded or poorly maintained vehicles increase the risks. Officials admit they need stricter safety checks and better road upkeep. They also stress the importance of training drivers well.

The state has tried to improve safety with emergency teams and highway upgrades. However, this tragedy shows much work remains to protect pilgrims.

Recent Mishaps in the Region

This accident is one in a series of tragedies in Uttarakhand. Recently, a helicopter crash near Kedarnath killed seven people. These events reveal the dangers travelers face in the mountainous state.

Uttarakhand’s beautiful but tough geography causes landslides, floods, and roadblocks, especially in monsoon season. Emergency teams often battle difficult conditions to save lives. Managing the heavy pilgrimage traffic while preserving the environment and safety is a complex challenge.

Community and Emotional Impact

Families of victims and the pilgrim community are deeply shaken. Many passengers traveled as part of groups aiming to complete their sacred journey.

Local villagers from Gholthir and nearby places helped rescue victims before officials arrived. Their brave efforts earned praise from many.

Religious and community leaders offered condolences. They urged travelers to be more aware of safety. Social media is flooded with prayers for the injured and missing.

Government Action and Future Plans

The Uttarakhand government promises aid to victims’ families, including compensation and medical care. The Chief Minister ordered a full investigation. Officials must identify causes and suggest safety improvements.

The government is boosting funding for disaster response teams. They plan stricter vehicle inspections and driver licensing enforcement. Authorities also want better monitoring of pilgrim transport.

Tips for Pilgrims to Stay Safe

Until improvements happen, pilgrims should take safety measures:

  • Choose licensed and trusted transport providers.
  • Avoid overcrowding in vehicles.
  • Check weather forecasts and avoid travel during heavy rains.
  • Stay alert and report concerns to drivers.
  • Follow local travel advisories carefully.

Conclusion

The bus accident on the Alaknanda River is a tragic reminder of the risks pilgrims face in Uttarakhand’s terrain. Rescue teams continue their efforts to save lives and bring comfort to families.

All stakeholders—government, transport operators, and pilgrims—must work together. Only then can the sacred Char Dham Yatra remain both spiritual and safe.