Six people lost their lives after an SUV plunged nearly 400 feet into a gorge in Maharashtra’s Raigad district late Wednesday night. The tragic accident took place in the Tamhini Ghat area, a hilly stretch known for its sharp turns, heavy fog, and challenging terrain. According to the police, the vehicle appears to have veered off the road while navigating one of the steep curves, crashing into the deep valley below.
Local authorities were alerted by passersby who noticed the damaged roadside barriers and suspected an accident. A rescue team comprising police personnel, local villagers, and disaster response volunteers was immediately dispatched. Due to the depth of the gorge and poor visibility at night, the operation continued into Thursday morning. All six occupants of the SUV were declared dead at the scene.
Police officials said the identities of the victims are being verified and their families will be contacted once the formalities are completed. Preliminary investigations suggest the driver may have lost control due to slippery road conditions or limited visibility, though officials have not ruled out mechanical failure.
Tamhini Ghat, connecting Pune and the Konkan region, is a popular route but also one of the most accident-prone stretches in the state. Frequent landslides, narrow roads, and lack of protective barriers in certain sections contribute to the danger. Authorities have repeatedly urged commuters to exercise caution, especially during late hours.
The bodies have been sent for post-mortem, and a case of accidental death has been registered. Police said further investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the crash.
