At least 14 people lost their lives when a tempo traveler carrying 23 passengers veered off the Rishikesh-Badrinath highway and fell into a gorge in Uttarakhand on Saturday. The incident occurred near Raitoli in the Rudraprayag district, officials reported.

The minibus tumbled into the Alaknanda River, and rescue operations are currently underway by the State Disaster Response Force and local police. Several bystanders on the roadside were also injured in the accident, according to sources.

President Droupadi Murmu expressed her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

The Prime Minister's Office announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for those injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the accident as "heartbreaking" and extended his deepest sympathies to those affected. He assured that the local administration, under the state government's supervision, is providing all possible assistance to the victims.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also expressed his sorrow over the incident, calling it "very sad news." He has directed the district magistrate to conduct a thorough investigation into the accident. In a message posted on X, formerly Twitter, he said, "I pray to God to grant peace to the departed souls and strength to the bereaved families. I also pray for the speedy recovery of the injured."

Officials have confirmed that the injured are being airlifted to AIIMS Rishikesh for further medical treatment. The rescue efforts continue as authorities strive to provide aid and support to those affected by this tragic incident.