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Simran Vohra

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  • Published: Feb 07 2026 01:05 PM
  • Last Updated: Feb 07 2026 01:17 PM

Bus carrying wedding guests plunges off mountain road in Nepal, killing 13 and injuring 34. Victims, rescue efforts, causes and updates explained.



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Kathmandu/Baitadi, Nepal — A devastating bus accident has shocked communities in western Nepal after a vehicle carrying wedding party guests plummeted off a narrow mountain road, killing at least 13 people and injuring 34 others. The tragic crash on 5 February 2026 has drawn national attention to road safety in Nepal’s hilly regions.

Timeline of Wedding Bus Accident Nepal

Let's break down the key moments step by step, so you see how fast things went wrong.

  • Thursday Evening, Feb 5: Wedding ends happily. Bus leaves with guests toward groom's home.
  • Night Crash: Around 8-9 PM, bus veers off near Budgaun. It tumbles 200 meters.
  • Immediate Rescue: Locals and police arrive quick. Ambulances take 34 hurt to clinics in Baitadi and nearby towns.
  • Friday, Feb 6: Death toll at 13 confirmed. News hits global wires like AP and ABC. Families mourn at site.
  • Saturday, Feb 7: No new deaths reported. Injured stable. Probe ongoing; locals demand better roads.

 Bus Accident in Nepal

Who Were the Victims? Families in Mourning After Baitadi Bus Tragedy

The 13 confirmed fatalities include both young and old passengers, among them children and relatives from the same community. Several died instantly when the bus fell, while others succumbed later during treatment at Dadeldhura Hospital.

Police officials have released partial names and ages of those who died, showing the wide impact on families in the region.

34 Injured, Some in Critical Condition — Medical Response

A total of 34 passengers were injured and rushed to hospitals in Dadeldhura, Dhangadhi, and Kotila for urgent medical care. Several of the injured remain in critical condition, and authorities warn the death toll could still rise.

Doctors and specialists are treating fractures, internal injuries, and trauma caused by the fall. Local health officials say free medical aid has been approved by the province government.

Bride and Groom Survived — Separate Vehicle Was Safer

In a heartbreaking twist, the bride and groom were not on the bus when the crash happened — they were traveling in a separate jeep ahead of the bus and escaped unhurt. Many of their relatives were on the bus, however, deepening the sense of grief among families.

Driver Arrested, Police Investigate Cause

Authorities have arrested the bus driver, identified as Birendra Budha, who was also injured in the crash. Police are investigating possible causes including mechanical failure, a burst pressure pipe, or brake malfunction as the vehicle climbed uphill.

Officials say final conclusions will only be made after a detailed safety and technical analysis of the bus and road conditions.

Bus Accident Nepal

Rescue Operation: Neighbours and Forces Worked Through Night

Residents, police, and local volunteers formed a human chain to rescue passengers under freezing mountain conditions. Their quick action saved many lives by bringing injured passengers to local health centres.

Local villagers are now supporting families with food, shelter, and immediate care while relief agencies arrive in the area.

Government Response: Relief and Safety Promises

The provincial government of Sudurpaschim has approved a relief package that includes:

  • Rs 100,000 for families of the deceased
  • Free treatment for injured passengers at government hospitals
  • Support for transportation of victims where needed

Nepal’s central government has also expressed condolences and is monitoring the situation closely.

Baitadi Bus Crash: Voices from Survivors

One survivor described how he jumped from the bus just before it fell, grabbing a tree that stopped his slide down the hill. Many injured passengers told rescuers they felt the bus slow suddenly before rolling backward toward the edge.

Local residents say this has been the worst traffic accident in years in the region, striking fear into families who depend on mountain roads daily.

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FAQ

Investigators are looking into mechanical issues like a burst pressure pipe and brake failure on the steep mountain road. The exact cause is still under investigation.

It occurred near Badgaun village in Purchaudi Municipality, Baitadi District, in western Nepal.

Thirteen people — including children and adults — died. Thirty-four others were injured. The bride and groom survived as they were in a different vehicle.

Yes, injured passengers are receiving treatment in hospitals at Dadeldhura, Dhangadhi, and Kotila. Some remain in serious condition.

The province announced cash relief and free medical care for victims’ families, and the central government has expressed sympathy.

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