Six Tourists Killed, Four Injured in Himachal Pradesh Gorge Crash

Six tourists were killed and four others critically injured when an Innova Crysta fell nearly 300 metres into a gorge on the Chamba–Nurpur National Highway in Himachal Pradesh's Chamba district around 3:00 am on Monday (May 11). The vehicle, registered in Mandi and carrying tourists from Gujarat, lost control near the Ghar area, according to police.

Local residents and police launched a rescue operation in the difficult terrain, recovering all six bodies from the wreckage. The injured were rushed to a nearby hospital, where their conditions remain critical. A post-mortem examination has been ordered for the deceased.

Preliminary investigations suggest the driver lost control on the hilly stretch, though authorities have not confirmed the exact cause. Police have initiated a full inquiry to determine the circumstances behind the crash. This is the second major tourist vehicle accident in Himachal Pradesh within a month, following a similar incident in Kullu’s Jalori Jot in April that killed three and injured 17.

Officials have reiterated concerns over road safety in the hill state, particularly on routes with sharp turns and inadequate safeguards. The police investigation is ongoing, with authorities expected to review driver fatigue, vehicle condition, and road infrastructure. The court will resume hearing on Tuesday.