A tragic accident in Maharashtra’s Nashik district claimed six lives on Sunday after a vehicle veered off the road and plunged into a 600-foot gorge at the Saptashring Garh Ghat in Kalwan taluka. According to police officials, the incident took place around 4 pm when a Toyota Innova, carrying seven passengers, lost control on the hilly stretch and tumbled into the deep ravine. The impact of the fall was so severe that the vehicle was completely mangled, leaving six occupants dead on the spot.

All the victims were residents of Pimpalgaon Baswant in Niphad taluka and were reportedly returning from a visit to the sacred Saptashrungi temple area, a popular pilgrimage site known for its steep ghats and sharp turns. The deceased were identified as Kirti Patel (50), Raseela Patel (50), Vitthal Patel (65), Lata Patel (60), Vachan Patel (60), and Maniben Patel (70). The identity and condition of the seventh passenger, who survived the fall, have not yet been fully disclosed, though authorities have indicated that rescue teams are attempting to retrieve and stabilise the injured person.

Superintendent of Police Balasaheb Patil is personally overseeing the rescue efforts at the remote accident site. The terrain of Saptashring Garh Ghat is notoriously difficult for emergency operations due to its narrow, winding roads and steep cliff edges. Teams from the district disaster management authority, along with local police, rushed to the location immediately after receiving information about the mishap. Rohitkumar Rajput, Resident Deputy Collector and CEO of the District Disaster Authority, confirmed that specialised rescue units are engaged in recovering the victims and bringing the injured to safety despite challenging conditions on the hillside.

The news prompted swift responses from national and state leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, issuing a statement conveying condolences to the bereaved families. “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Nashik, Maharashtra. My thoughts are with those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover soon,” the Prime Minister said, acknowledging the tragedy and extending support to those affected.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also described the incident as “extremely tragic” and announced an ex-gratia financial assistance of ₹5 lakh each to the families of the deceased. He further stated that the state government stands firmly with the victims’ families during this difficult time and assured that the administration is providing full support to the rescue operations underway at the accident site.

Accidents along ghat sections in Maharashtra are frequent due to sharp curves, steep inclines, and occasional lack of adequate safety barriers. The Saptashring area, known for its religious significance, attracts a large number of devotees every week, especially during weekends. Officials have often emphasised the need for improved road safety measures in the region, including better signage, protective railings, and controlled traffic during peak hours.

Sunday’s accident once again highlights the vulnerability of travellers navigating hilly terrains, especially in older vehicles or during crowded pilgrimage seasons. Authorities are expected to conduct a detailed investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the crash—whether it was driver error, mechanical failure, or road conditions that contributed to the horrific plunge.

As rescue operations continue, grief has enveloped the community of Pimpalgaon Baswant, where the victims lived. Friends, neighbours, and extended family members have gathered to mourn the sudden and devastating loss. For now, the focus remains on completing the recovery efforts, supporting the lone survivor, and providing solace to the families whose lives have been irreparably altered by the tragedy.