Eight dead, 22 injured as pilgrims’ bus overturns

Fatehgarh Sahib: A bus carrying pilgrims returning from Baisakhi celebrations at Anandpur Sahib overturned near Bassi Pathana late Tuesday night, leaving eight dead and more than 22 injured.The accident occurred near Himmatpura village on the Morinda–Chunni road, just 3-4 km from the destination of the victims, Main Majra village. ASI Balveer Singh of the Bassi Pathana police station said the deceased included the driver and village granthi, Iqbal Singh, who was ferrying the devotees back to the village gurdwara.Police clarified the vehicle did not hit an electric pole, dismissing earlier speculation of electrocution. While officials are examining the mechanical condition of the bus, local residents alleged potholes caused the driver to lose control over the vehicle.Local villagers were the first on the scene, playing a critical role in rescuing trapped passengers before emergency services arrived.Twelve of the injured were referred to PGI, Chandigarh, due to their critical condition, while others are receiving treatment at hospitals in Morinda and Fatehgarh Sahib.Police have initiated an investigation.