Chandigarh, 15 April (H.S.): A tragic road accident in Fatehgarh

Sahib, Punjab, claimed the lives of seven devotees and left more than

two dozen others injured late Tuesday night. The victims were returning from Baisakhi celebrations held at Shri Anandpur Sahib.

According to preliminary reports, nearly 40

devotees were travelling in a bus back to their village after attending the

religious gathering at Shri Anandpur Sahib.

Most passengers were scheduled to disembark at village Main Majra; however, the

accident occurred just 1.5 to 2 kilometers before reaching their destination,

near village Himmatpura.

The mishap reportedly occurred after the bus

developed a technical fault, causing the driver to lose control. The vehicle

rammed into an electric pole and overturned. Some injured passengers alleged

that the bus may have come into contact with a live electric current following

the collision, which further intensified panic among those onboard.

The scene turned chaotic immediately after the

crash, with cries for help and confusion prevailing. Local residents were the

first to respond, initiating rescue efforts before emergency services arrived.

Police and medical teams soon reached the spot and shifted the injured to

nearby hospitals. Around 12 victims were taken to Morinda, while 9 were

admitted to the Fatehgarh Sahib Civil Hospital. Critically injured patients

have been referred to PGIMER Chandigarh

for advanced medical care.

Senior Superintendent of Police Dr. Shubham Aggarwal confirmed that the victims

were very close to their destination when the tragedy occurred. He added that

the injured are currently stable, and a thorough investigation is underway to

ascertain the exact cause of the accident.

The

deceased, including two real brothers, belonged to village Main Majra and

nearby areas. Authorities continue rescue and relief operations, as the

incident has cast a deep shadow of grief across the region.

Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj expresses grief over Fatehgarh Sahib accident

Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj, Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, has expressed deep sorrow over the accidental deaths of devotees and injuries caused after a bus carrying Sikh pilgrims overturned late last night in the Bassi Pathana area of Sri Fatehgarh Sahib. The devotees were returning after paying obeisance at Sri Anandpur Sahib on the occasion of Khalsa Sajna Diwas.

He offered prayers for the departed souls, seeking that the Almighty grant them a place at His feet and bless their families with the strength to accept His will. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in the accident.

The Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib has directed the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to reach out to the affected families and extend all possible assistance.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH