Breaking: Four sound system workers die as vehicle falls into gorge near Kiratpur Sahib after Satinder Sartaj’s Kullu show
Shashi Bhushan Purohit
Kiratpur Sahib (Punjab), October 28: Four sound system workers died after their vehicle plunged into a deep gorge near Dehni village, close to Kiratpur Sahib in Punjab, while they were returning to Ropar after providing sound system services for Punjabi singer Satinder Sartaj’s performance at the International Kullu Dussehra Festival.
The accident occurred on the Chandigarh-Kullu-Manali highway when the vehicle, reportedly carrying sound system equipment, went out of control and fell into the gorge. All four occupants died in the crash.
According to preliminary information, the workers were associated with a sound system group based in Ropar. They had travelled to Himachal Pradesh to arrange the sound system for Sartaj’s performance during the festival’s cultural programme.
After the event concluded, they began their journey back to Punjab. However, the vehicle met with an accident near Dehni village.
Rescue operation lasts around two-and-a-half hours
The vehicle was badly damaged after falling into the gorge, making the rescue operation difficult. Local residents and a team from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) reached the spot and assisted in the operation.
After nearly two-and-a-half hours of efforts, the bodies of all four occupants were retrieved from the wreckage with the help of a crane.
The bodies were subsequently taken to the mortuary at Bhai Jaita Ji Civil Hospital in Sri Anandpur Sahib.
Police reached the scene and initiated an investigation. The exact cause of the accident is yet to be established.
Four families mourn the loss
The accident has left four families grieving. The workers had been involved in the technical arrangements for Sartaj’s performance at the International Kullu Dussehra Festival, where his appearance attracted a large audience.
Sound, lighting and other technical teams play an important role in large cultural events, often working long hours and travelling after performances conclude.
The Kiratpur Sahib police are investigating the incident. Official confirmation of the cause of the crash and further details about the deceased are awaited.