Kullu
Even though the weather across Himachal Pradesh, has improved after recent snowfall, mountain roads continue to pose grave dangers. Frost-covered stretches are turning highways into accident-prone zones, triggering a series of near-miss incidents across the state.
Just days after a private bus mishap in Bilaspur district, another terrifying incident unfolded on Thursday in Kullu district of himachal pradesh where a tourist bus narrowly escaped plunging into a deep gorge.
The incident occurred near Chhannikhod on the Bhuntar–Manikaran road. A private bus carrying tourists lost traction on an icy stretch due to frost and a steep gradient. Within seconds, the vehicle skidded dangerously, leaving nearly half of the bus suspended over a gorge, with the roaring “Parvati River”,”kullu district, himachal pradesh”.
Passengers were gripped by fear as the bus hung precariously, with even the slightest movement threatening a catastrophic fall.
Panic erupted inside the bus, and cries for help alerted nearby villagers. Displaying remarkable presence of mind, locals rushed to the spot and helped safely evacuate all passengers. Police and administrative teams soon reached the site to secure the area. Miraculously, no injuries were reported.
Frosty Roads, Failing Infrastructure
Locals and officials pointed out that early morning and evening frost in higher reaches of Kullu district is making roads extremely slippery. Poor road conditions, combined with sharp curves and steep drops, are compounding the risk. Tourist vehicles are particularly vulnerable, as drivers unfamiliar with hill terrain often underestimate icy stretches.
Safety Concerns Resurface
The incident has once again put hill road safety under scrutiny. Residents have raised concerns over the absence of warning signboards, inadequate crash barriers, and delayed maintenance on sensitive stretches. Authorities have advised commuters to drive slowly, avoid early morning travel where possible, and remain extra cautious even after snowfall has stopped.
The close shave is a stark reminder that in the mountains, clear skies do not guarantee safe roads—and a moment’s slip can mean the difference between life and tragedy.
