Five Family Members Killed as Car Plunges into Gorge in Himachal's Chamba

Five members of a family were killed late Monday night when their car veered off the Bharmaur-Pathankot State highway and fell into a deep gorge near Lahar in Himachal Pradesh's Chamba district. The victims include a one-year-old child, the child's parents, and grandparents, according to preliminary information from sources. Police have not yet officially confirmed the identities of the deceased.

The family was reportedly on its way to Pathankot to seek medical treatment for the child when the accident occurred. The cause of the crash remains unknown, and a detailed investigation has been initiated. Superintendent of Police, Chamba, Vijay Saklani, confirmed that bodies are being extracted and legal formalities are underway.

Rescue teams and local residents faced severe difficulties in reaching the site due to the remote terrain and darkness. Despite the challenges, they worked together to recover the bodies. The police have appealed to the public to exercise extreme caution while driving on hilly roads, especially at night and during adverse weather conditions.

Accidents on the mountainous highways of Himachal Pradesh are not uncommon, often resulting from sharp bends, poor visibility, and the absence of crash barriers. This tragic incident highlights the vulnerability of travellers on such routes and the urgent need for improved road safety measures, including better signage and barriers at accident-prone spots.

Authorities have urged witnesses or anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist the investigation. The local administration has assured that all necessary support will be provided to the bereaved family once their identities are confirmed.

Further details are awaited as the investigation continues.