Six killed as two Punjab pilgrimage buses collide in Tarn Taran
The head-on collision occurred on National Highway-54 after a bus driver swerved to avoid a motorcycle.
At least six people were killed and 16 others injured after two Punjab government-run pilgrimage buses collided head-on near Naushehra Pannuan in Tarn Taran district on Saturday evening, according to India Today.
The accident occurred on National Highway-54 when the driver of one bus swerved to avoid a motorcycle, crossed the road divider, and crashed into an oncoming bus.
One bus was travelling from Faridkot to Amritsar, while the other was heading from Amritsar to Muktsar, according to Times Now.
Among the deceased were a motorcycle pillion rider, identified as Lakhwinder Kaur, and three pilgrims. The identities of the other victims were still being established.
Tarn Taran Deputy Commissioner Nirmal Oseppachan said four people died on the spot, while one passenger who was referred to Amritsar later succumbed to injuries.
Five seriously injured passengers were undergoing treatment at Guru Nanak Dev Medical College and Hospital in Amritsar, while others were admitted to the Civil Hospital in Tarn Taran.
The buses were carrying pilgrims under the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Scheme, which provides free travel, food, and accommodation to eligible residents aged 50 and above.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann expressed his sadness on X and said he had issued instructions to ensure the injured receive the best possible medical treatment.