Image credit: Nepal Khabar
A tragic accident occurred in Pokhara on July 27, 2024, when a school bus skidded off a hairpin bend and plunged approximately 50 meters down a slope, resulting in one fatality and injuries to 29 others. The incident took place on a winding section of road known for its challenging terrain.
According to local police, the bus was transporting students and teachers from Pokhara’s Secondary School when the driver lost control at a sharp turn. The vehicle veered off the road, crashing down the embankment. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene to provide aid and transport the injured to nearby medical facilities.
According to witnesses, the road was slick at the scene of the collision, which may have contributed to the bus skidding. The police have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident, including whether road conditions, mechanical failure, or driver error played a role.
The bus was reportedly carrying more passengers than usual as students were returning from a school excursion. This has raised concerns about vehicle safety standards and the enforcement of transportation regulations, particularly for vehicles carrying children. Authorities have called for a thorough review of school transportation safety protocols in response to the accident.
Local officials, including the Mayor of Pokhara, have expressed condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and pledged support for the victims. The Mayor also announced that the municipality would collaborate with police and transportation authorities to review safety measures on the region’s roads, particularly on routes frequently used by school buses.
In addition to immediate response efforts, psychological support services are being arranged for students, teachers, and families affected by the accident. The school administration has announced the temporary suspension of classes to provide counseling and support to those impacted by the incident. This initiative aims to address the emotional and psychological toll the accident has taken on the school community, highlighting the importance of mental health support in the aftermath of such tragedies.