Five killed, 15 injured as bus carrying tourists plunges into ravine in Diamer

Gilgit: In a devastating incident, a van carrying tourists met with a tragic accident in the Thalichi area of Gilgit Baltistan's Diamer district.

The van, which was traveling from Islamabad to Gilgit via the renowned Karakoram Highway, veered off the road and plunged into a deep ravine. This unfortunate event resulted in the loss of at least five lives, while 15 others sustained injuries.

Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the accident, as it has left them puzzled. Prompt action was taken by rescue officials and law enforcement agencies, including the dedicated members of Rescue 1122. They swiftly initiated rescue operations to save the victims and provide them with the necessary medical assistance.

The injured individuals were quickly transported to a local 10-bed civil hospital for initial treatment. Following that, they will be transferred to Gilgit for further care. Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Gulber Khan expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives. He has ordered the immediate provision of free medical aid to the injured and assured that all essential measures would be taken to support the affected families during this challenging time.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives in a tourist bus accident near Thalichi, at Karakoram highway on Sunday.

In a statement on Sunday, he prayed for eternal peace of the deceased and expressed condolences with their bereaved families.                                                               

The Prime Minister directed the Gilgit-Baltistan authorities for immediate relief operation and also directed relevant federal departments to assist in relief work.                  

Praying for speedy recovery of the injured, the Prime Minister directed authorities concerned to provide best medical facilities to them.                                                     

Shehbaz Sharif also ordered an enquiry into the accident to ascertain its cause.