In a tragic landslide incident, around 50 people are buried alive and rescue teams so far have recovered over a dozen bodies at Kotrupi along Pathankot-Mandi National Highway in Mandi district of the state.
As per information received, two HRTC buses had stopped for refreshments at Kotrupi (near Joginder Nagar) and around 12:35 am a huge landslide washed away everything came its way.
The teams of NDRF, Army, Police and Home Guards have been deployed in the rescue operation. As per the reports eight passengers were travelling in the bus enroute Manali to Katra. Out of which three lost their lives while five injured were rescued and admitted at Zonal Hospital Mandi. Two of the injured have been discharged from the hospital. Rescue teams have traced both buses.
A 250-metre stretch of the road has been completely washed away and Mandi-Joginder Nagar road has been closed for traffic. Vehicles have been diverted via alternative routes.
Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh visited Kotpuri. He directed for intensifying the rescue and relief measures on war footing. He said the rescue operation would continue until the last body of victim was recovered.
The Chief Minister distributed immediate relief to next of kin of the deceased and injured. He said Government would bear expenses on the treatment of the injured passengers.
He directed to assess the loss to the property at the earliest so that the sufferers could be provided compensation and other assistance.
Virbhadra Singh also met the bereaved family members and expressed his heartfelt condolences. He assured them of all possible assistance in this hour of distress. He prayed for safety of the missing passengers and speedy recovery of those injured.
PM condoles death
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has also expressed grief over the loss of lives due to landslide. Team of NDRF is going to Mandi to take part in the rescue and relief operations and provide all possible assistance required.” the Prime Minister said.
