British Tourist Among 19 Dead in Nepal Bus Crash

Kathmandu: At least 19 people have tragically lost their lives in a bus accident in central Nepal, authorities have confirmed. Among the deceased is a 24-year-old British national.

The tourist-laden bus was en route to the capital, Kathmandu, from the popular tourist destination of Pokhara when the accident occurred in the early hours of Monday. According to Nepalese police, the vehicle lost control and plunged approximately 200 metres down the bank of the Trishuli River in Dhading District.

Reports indicate that the bus was carrying 44 passengers, including the driver. In addition to the fatalities, 25 people sustained injuries and were promptly transported to hospitals in Kathmandu for treatment. Among the injured are a Chinese national and a New Zealand citizen, highlighting the international nature of the passengers on board.

A spokesperson for the Nepal Police, Abhinarayan Kafle, stated that 17 people died at the scene, while two more succumbed to their injuries in hospital. As of now, nine of the deceased have been formally identified. Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing.

Nepal is known for its challenging road conditions, particularly in hilly and mountainous regions. Poor road maintenance, narrow winding roads, and heavy traffic often contribute to serious accidents. This tragic incident echoes past disasters; in 2024, a bus travelling from Pokhara to Kathmandu plunged into the Marsyangdi River in Tanahun District, claiming at least 14 lives.

The Nepalese authorities have urged caution for drivers and tourists alike, stressing the need for safety measures, especially on intercity routes that traverse difficult terrain. Rescue teams continue to assess the accident site and provide assistance to survivors.

Summary of the Incident

This latest tragedy underscores the ongoing challenges of road safety in Nepal and the risks faced by both local commuters and international tourists. Authorities continue to investigate and have appealed for strict adherence to safety protocols on all mountainous routes.