A tragic bus accident in Nepal has resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people, including one British national. The incident occurred around midnight as a packed bus travelling from Pokhara to Kathmandu drove off a mountain road and fell into the Trishuli River near Benighat, roughly 50 miles from the capital, Kathmandu. As per reports from the local police, approximately 25 people were also injured in the crash, with a number of victims yet to be identified.

The accident took place on the Prithvi highway, which is notorious for its steep slopes and potential dangers when navigating the winding mountain routes. Eyewitness accounts and initial investigations suggest that the bus lost control before plunging down the mountain. The local authorities are undertaking recovery operations alongside the police, with some survivors receiving medical attention for their injuries. So far, only nine victims' bodies have been officially identified, including that of a 24-year-old British citizen.

This incident raises concerns regarding road safety in Nepal, especially in the context of heavy traffic and challenging terrain where public transportation is frequently utilized. The presence of a foreign national among the dead has drawn international attention to the crisis, prompting discussions regarding tourist safety and the condition of roads used by buses in mountainous regions. The government of Nepal may now face increased scrutiny regarding infrastructure and travel safety measures to prevent future tragedies of this nature.