Chhath Puja Travelers Killed as Bus Plunges in Nepal

A tragic road accident in Nepal's Bagmati province resulted in the deaths of at least 14 individuals who were journeying home to observe the Chhath Puja festival. The incident took place early Thursday morning, around 5:45 am, within the Makawanpur district.

According to authorities at the Makwanpur District Police Office, the vehicle was transporting approximately 17 passengers along the Bhimfedi-Kulekhani-Kathmandu route. The microbus veered off the road and plummeted approximately 300 metres down a steep, hilly section situated in the Bhimfedi Rural Municipality while traveling from Kathmandu toward Sarlahi.

Among the victims, 11 people including the driver died at the scene or from the initial impact. Rescue teams and local authorities managed to pull six injured passengers from the wreckage. These survivors were swiftly transported to a local medical facility in Hetauda Municipality to receive necessary medical treatment for their injuries.

The occupants of the microbus were residents of the Sarlahi district located in the southern plains of Nepal. They had embarked on the journey from Kathmandu to reunite with their families and participate in the Hindu festival of Chhath, which officially falls on Sunday.

Understanding Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is a significant festival observed by the Hindu community, primarily celebrated across the Terai region in the southern plains of Nepal as well as various parts of neighboring regions.

Fourteen people traveling for Chhath Puja died when their vehicle plunged off a hilly road in Nepal.

Why it matters

This devastating crash claims the lives of numerous travelers attempting to return home for a major cultural celebration, highlighting ongoing road safety concerns along hilly transport routes in the region. The tragedy directly impacts families in the Sarlahi district and brings sorrow to communities observing the Chhath festival.