Astore Wedding Bus Accident Claims 14 Lives, Bride Survives Miraculously
A tragic accident occurred involving a passenger bus carrying wedding guests from Astore to Chakwal, as it plunged into the river near Thalichi Bridge in Gilgit Baltistan. So far, 14 bodies have been recovered following a rescue operation, while 12 individuals remain missing. In a miraculous turn of events, the bride survived and has been shifted to the Provincial Headquarters Hospital in Gilgit in an injured condition.
According to reports, the groom and his mother were among the 14 confirmed fatalities. The incident was attributed to the vehicle’s high speed, which led to the bus becoming uncontrollable, eventually breaking through the bridge’s safety barrier and plunging into the river below. The administration and police confirmed that the mishap occurred at Thalichi Bridge, where rescue operations commenced as soon as the news broke.
In Gilgit, Astore, and Jaglot hospitals were placed on high alert to manage the emergency response. The wedding procession had departed from Astore’s Parishing area and was en route to Chakwal, punjab.
The bride was among the survivors and was rushed to Gilgit for Punjab’s attention. However, rescue operations were hindered by darkness as night fell, making further efforts challenging.
Local authorities have requested assistance from the Diamer-Bhasha Dam administration and the Upper Kohistan administration to expedite rescue efforts. Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, the Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan and government officials directed that all available resources be utilized for the rescue mission.
Police sources stated that the accident occurred due to speeding, causing the vehicle to lose control upon reaching the bridge, crashing through the safety barrier, and falling into the river.
By Faheem Akhtar | Gilgit
