KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) – A tragic accident occurred in west Nepal when a bus carrying a wedding party veered off a mountain road and plunged down a slope. The crash resulted in the death of at least 13 individuals, with authorities reporting an additional 34 people injured as of Friday. The incident took place on Thursday night, highlighting the dangers that accompany travel on the rugged terrain characteristic of the region.

The bus was transporting members of a wedding party back to their village after the ceremony. It fell approximately 200 meters (about 650 feet) and came to rest on flat ground near Budgaun village, located about 500 kilometers (310 miles) west of Kathmandu, the nation's capital. Immediately following the accident, the injured passengers were rushed to local hospitals for medical attention, while the bodies of the deceased were retrieved from the wreckage by emergency responders, as confirmed by the Baitadi district police office.

At the time of the crash, it was noted that both the bride and groom were thankfully in a different vehicle and managed to escape the ordeal unharmed. As investigations into the cause of the accident commenced, authorities have not yet determined the exact reasons for the bus’s sudden veering off the road.

Bus accidents in Nepal are often attributed to several factors, including poorly maintained roads and vehicles. The mountainous landscape, along with narrow, winding roads, poses significant challenges for drivers and can lead to catastrophic incidents. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with transportation in such precarious conditions, particularly during events like weddings that can involve larger gatherings and celebrations.

With the ongoing investigations, local officials are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding this crash further, ensuring that proper measures can be taken to improve road safety and prevent similar tragedies in the future. As this story unfolds, the community mourns the loss of those who perished in this unfortunate accident, and families of the injured will be hoping for their swift recovery.