Darjeeling, 22 October (H.S.): At least three people were killed and several others injured in a horrific road accident in Mirik in Darjeeling district of West Bengal on Wednesday afternoon. As per information, a cruiser vehicle plunged into a 150-foot-deep gorge. The police, fire department, and disaster management teams launched a joint rescue operation to rescue the injured.

As per local sources, the small cruiser was carrying passengers from Nepal to Mirik. The tragic accident occurred around 3:30 pm on Putung Road in Naldara area near Mirik. It is reported that the road has several sharp turns, and on one of these turns, the driver lost control, causing the cruiser to plunge into a gorge approximately 150 feet deep.

According to local sources, three people died on the spot. The deceased include two Nepalese nationals and a resident of Mirik. The driver and several other passengers have been hospitalized in critical condition.

On information, locals, Mirik police, firefighters, and disaster management teams rushed to the scene and began rescue operations. Three bodies have been recovered. The police are trying to determine the total number of passengers on board.

Recent heavy rains and landslides in North Bengal have caused significant disruptions in many areas. Landslides have occurred in several parts of Mirik, and the Dudhiya Bridge has been damaged. Consequently, vehicles are forced to take alternative routes. It is reported that the same cruiser was traveling to Mirik via a circuitous alternative route.

The police are now investigating whether the accident was caused by slippery roads, a vehicle technical fault, or some other reason.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey