One Dead, Eight Injured as Passenger Bus Overturns in Uttarakhand’Nainital

New Delhi, March 27, 2026: A tragic road accident occurred in the early hours of Friday morning in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, where a passenger bus overturned, resulting in the death of one person and leaving eight others with significant injuries.

The incident took place around 7:30 AM near the Khupi village area on the Bhowali-Haldwani road. The bus, operated by Kumaon Motor Owners’ Union (KMOU) Limited, was reportedly en route from Haldwani to Pithoragarh (with some reports indicating Didihat) carrying approximately 14 passengers when the driver lost control of the vehicle.

Rescue Operations and Immediate Response

Upon receiving news of the accident, teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and the fire department rushed to the scene. SDRF Sub-Inspector Manish Bhakuni confirmed that the rescue operation was launched immediately to extricate passengers trapped inside the overturned vehicle.

• Casualties: One passenger died on the spot due to the impact of the crash. The identity of the deceased is being verified, and the body has been sent for a post-mortem examination.
• Injuries: Eight passengers sustained serious injuries. They were initially rushed to a hospital in Bhowali, while those requiring more intensive care were later shifted to higher medical centers in Haldwani.

Official Statements

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep grief over the accident. In a statement shared on social media, the Chief Minister confirmed that the local administration is providing all necessary assistance to the victims.

“The news of the bus accident on the Haldwani-Pithoragarh route is extremely heartbreaking. Instructions have been issued to the district administration to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured. If required, seriously injured passengers will be airlifted for advanced medical care.” — CM Pushkar Singh Dhami

Investigation into the Cause

While a formal technical investigation is underway, preliminary reports suggest that the bus may have overturned while attempting to overtake another vehicle or due to the driver losing control on a sharp bend. Local authorities are looking into whether mechanical failure or human error played a role in the mishap.

Road accidents in the hilly terrains of Uttarakhand remain a persistent concern, often exacerbated by narrow roads and unpredictable weather conditions. This latest incident has once again highlighted the need for stringent safety protocols for public transport operating in the Kumaon region.