Nainital: A tragic road accident in Uttarakhand’s Nainital district claimed the lives of two tourists from Uttar Pradesh on Saturday morning, March 21, 2026. Two others were critically injured when their vehicle veered off the road and plummeted into a 300-metre-deep gorge near Khupi on the Jeolikot-Bhowali stretch. The group was reportedly travelling toward the Jageshwar Dham pilgrimage site when the driver lost control of the car at approximately 8:30 am.
Local residents, alerted by the sound of the vehicle crashing into the ravine, were the first to reach the site and notify emergency services. A massive rescue operation was subsequently launched involving the Nainital Police, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the fire department. Rescuers had to navigate the steep, treacherous terrain to reach the wreckage and extricate the four occupants, two of whom were pronounced dead at the scene.
The deceased have been identified as Ankit Chaudhary and Abhiraj, both residents of Unnao, Uttar Pradesh. The two survivors, identified as Atul Dubey and Shyam, sustained severe injuries and were given preliminary medical aid at the site before being rushed to a higher medical facility in Haldwani for specialized treatment. Hospital sources described their condition as critical.
Police have initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident, looking into factors such as potential mechanical failure, overspeeding, or driver fatigue. The Jeolikot-Bhowali road is known for its sharp curves and can be particularly hazardous during the early morning hours due to mist or reduced visibility. Authorities have urged tourists to exercise extreme caution while navigating the hilly terrain of the Kumaon region.
