A tempo traveler carrying passengers overturned in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday, leaving 22 people injured. The incident occurred near the village of Raison on the Manali-Kullu highway when the driver lost control of the vehicle due to excessive speed and reckless driving.
Accident Details
The vehicle, a Tata Winger, was en route from Manali to Kullu when it overturned after hitting a roadside barricade. Eyewitnesses reported that the driver was speeding and took a sharp turn without reducing speed, causing the vehicle to flip onto its side. The injured passengers, including women and children, were rushed to the Kullu District Hospital for treatment. As per hospital sources, most of the injured have been discharged after primary treatment, while a few are under observation.
Legal Action
Kullu police have registered a case against the driver under sections of the Indian Penal Code for rash driving and endangering human life. The driver, identified as Rajesh Kumar, was arrested and later released on bail. Police have also seized the vehicle for further investigation. Superintendent of Police Kullu, Shalini Agnihotri, stated that strict action will be taken against the driver, and a detailed probe into the incident is underway.
Past Incidents
This is not the first such incident in the region. The Manali-Kullu highway has witnessed several accidents due to overspeeding and poor road conditions. Local residents have repeatedly demanded better road safety measures, including speed breakers and increased patrolling. The recent accident has once again raised concerns about road safety in the tourist-heavy district.
Authorities have urged drivers to adhere to speed limits and exercise caution on hilly roads. Meanwhile, the injured passengers have been advised to file compensation claims under the Motor Vehicles Act.
