Four persons died a painful death after the car they were travelling in veered off a mountainous road and plunged nearly 500 metres into a deep gorge near Uttarakhand’s Mussoorie on Wednesday morning, the police said. Preliminary findings indicate that a brake failure may have resulted in the devastating accident, according to police.

The incident unfolded on Jharipani Road, known for its steep and winding route frequently taken by tourists and local travellers. Authorities received information regarding the crash through the emergency 112 helpline at 9:16 am on Wednesday, following which they rushed to set the rescue operation in motion.

SDRF, fire teams among rescuers

Upon receipt of the information, cops from the Mussoorie Police Station, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), fire services and emergency medical teams reached the spot immediately and launched a coordinated rescue effort.

However, by the time the rescuers made it to the gorge, all four occupants of the car had succumbed to their injuries. The ones who lost their lives have been identified as Satyaprakash, a resident of Haryana’s Sonipat, Manit (19) and Savita (48), both residents of Ghaziabad, and Sangeeta (46), a resident of Delhi’s Karol Bagh.

As per police, the victims were travelling from Uttarkashi when they met the ill-fate.

Authorities suspect brake failure

Circle Officer of Mussoorie, Ankit Khandari, provided details of the incident, saying preliminary findings have indicated that the vehicle may have suffered a brake failure while negotiating a steep downhill stretch.

He said, “As per initial information, the car’s brakes may have failed on the descent.” On the other hand, the investigating police personnel said that the passengers had taken a break at a roadside shop to purchase a few items before resuming their journey, Moments later, the vehicle reportedly began rolling downhill uncontrollably. Before plunging into the gorge, the car rushing at a high speed crossed a vacant plot adjacent to the road, leaving the occupants with no chance of survival.

According to police, the bodies have been recovered from the ravine and would be sent for autopsy. The families of the victims have been informed.

Mountainous roads continue to pose threats

The accident has once again cast the spotlight on the dangers associated with driving on Uttarakhand’s hilly roads, where sharp bends, steep gradients and narrow stretches frequently emerge as top contributors to road mishaps.

Official records reveal that more than 1,000 road accidents are reported annually in the state. The risks mount during the monsoon and winter months, when rainfall, fog and reduced visibility make travel more hazardous.

The Uttarakhand government has taken cognisance of the concern and has approved the Road Safety Policy 2025, with the aim of reducing road accidents by 50% by 2030. The policy is centred on strengthening road infrastructure, improving compliance with traffic regulations, enhancing emergency response systems and promoting public awareness regarding road safety.