Devastating Landslide in Himachal Pradesh: Bus Buried Under Mountain Debris

A tragic landslide in Himachal Pradesh's Bilaspur buried a bus under massive mountain debris, killing at least 15 passengers. The accident, which occurred Tuesday evening, triggered extensive search and rescue operations by local authorities and NDRF teams. Concerns about the sustainability of the region's development have been raised following the incident.

Efforts to locate survivors resumed Wednesday morning, with teams utilizing machinery and dog squads to scour the wreckage for the missing. Officials acknowledge the odds of recovering more survivors are diminishing. The victims include several families returning from an event, and the tragic loss has deeply affected the local community.

State officials, including Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, have ordered a magisterial inquiry to probe the incident's causes, likely exacerbated by recent heavy rain. National leaders have offered condolences, with Prime Minister Modi announcing compensation for the victims' families. The disaster underscores the need for reviewing regional construction practices amid environmental challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)