Ajmer Bus Plunge: 2 Dead, 30 Injured as Vehicle Falls into 200-ft Gorge in Pushkar
A tragic road accident occurred in Ajmer on Sunday noon when a private bus lost control and plunged into a 200-foot-deep gorge in the Pushkar valley, resulting in the deaths of two passengers and injuries to 30 others. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and highlighted safety concerns on the hilly terrain.
Details of the Fatal Accident
According to police reports, the bus was traveling from Pisanghan via Ajmer to Pushkar for a wedding when the driver lost control while attempting a U-turn on the hill towards Pushkar. The vehicle slid into the gorge near Sanjesar, the top of the hill. Deputy SP (rural) Ramchandra Choudhary stated, "The bus was going to Pushkar and the incident took place just ahead of Sanjesar. When the bus fell into the gorge, because of trees it slid and therefore passengers got time to come out."
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
The deceased have been identified as Pooja, aged 28, and Vimla Devi, aged 50, both residents of Ajmer. A total of 33 passengers were on board at the time of the accident. Bystanders who witnessed the bus falling into the gorge immediately sprang into action, carrying out rescue operations by using clothes to create makeshift ropes and helping passengers climb to safety on the hill's upside.
The injured were first taken to Pushkar government hospital and then referred to JLN Hospital in Ajmer for advanced treatment. By evening, two injured persons had been discharged after receiving medical care, while others continued to undergo treatment.
Investigation and Official Response
Police are actively investigating the incident and searching for the driver, who fled the scene after jumping from the bus. The Ajmer-Pushkar road remained severely jammed for hours following the accident, disrupting traffic flow.
District Collector Lok Bandhu visited the accident site to gather information and assess the situation. Additionally, Speaker and Ajmer MLA Vasudev Devnani engaged with officials, inquiring about the injured and directing the principal of JLN Medical College to ensure proper treatment for all affected individuals. Devnani emphasized, "The traffic system on Pushkar ghati will be improved" to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Safety Concerns and Community Impact
This accident underscores the critical need for enhanced road safety measures on hilly routes, particularly in areas like Pushkar valley where sharp turns and steep gorges pose significant risks. The quick thinking of bystanders in the rescue operation likely prevented further casualties, demonstrating community solidarity in times of crisis.
Authorities are urged to implement stricter regulations and infrastructure improvements to safeguard travelers on this busy route, ensuring that such devastating incidents do not recur.
