A devastating accident occurred in the Astore district of Gilgit-Baltistan, where a bus carrying wedding guests from Astore to Chakwal lost control near Thalichi and plunged into the river, leading to the tragic loss of 26 lives. According to Deputy Commissioner Astore, the accident took place on Tuesday afternoon, around 1 PM, when the bus traveling from the village of Perishing to Chakwal lost control due to high speed near the Thalichi Bridge, resulting in the vehicle falling into the river.
The coaster carried a total of 27 passengers, including the bride, Malaika, the only survivor who was rescued in injured condition. Rescue teams have so far recovered 14 bodies, which have been transported to the District Headquarters Hospital in Astore. The search for the remaining 12 missing individuals continues, with efforts from three Rescue 1122 teams, two boats, and local divers. The search operation may also involve Pakistan Navy teams to assist in recovering the bodies from the river.
Among those who lost their lives are several family members from Perishing, including Zafar Iqbal, Zia-ud-Din, Sham-ud-Din, Robina, Qaneen, Naheed, Muhammad Shah, Tahir, Kulsoom, a four-year-old child, and an unidentified woman. Other victims include Kamila from Pakura and the groom’s cousin from Chakwal.
The bus has been lifted from the river using a Rescue 1122 crane, marking a tragic reminder of the challenges faced on mountain roads. Rescue operations will continue in hopes of recovering the remaining bodies. Local authorities and rescue teams are working tirelessly to assist affected families in this time of grief.