19 Killed in Tragic Bus Crash on Prithvi Highway, Including Three Foreign Nationals

A devastating bus accident occurred in the early hours of February 23, 2026, when a passenger bus traveling from Pokhara to Kathmandu veered off the Prithvi Highway in Dhading district and plunged more than 200 meters into the icy Trishuli River.

Police confirmed 19 fatalities, including a 24-year-old British hiker, a Chinese woman, and an Indian man. Among the 44 passengers were five foreigners; 25 people sustained injuries, with some in serious condition at hospitals in Kathmandu.

The bus lost control near Behighat, around 80 km west of the capital. Rescue teams worked through challenging terrain to recover bodies and assist survivors. Authorities identified all victims by February 24.

Road accidents remain frequent in Nepal due to narrow, winding mountain roads, poor vehicle maintenance, and harsh weather. This incident has renewed calls for stricter safety regulations and infrastructure improvements.

Tributes poured in for victims, including the British national described as "very loving and caring" by family and friends. International condolences came from nations like the UAE.

Investigation and Broader Context

Police are investigating possible causes, including driver fatigue, road conditions, or mechanical failure. Overloaded buses and overnight travel are common risk factors on this route.

The crash highlights Nepal's ongoing road safety crisis, with hundreds killed annually in similar incidents.

Conclusion: As Nepal prepares for elections, improving infrastructure and enforcement remains critical to prevent such tragedies.