Car in President Pranab Mukherjee's convoy falls into gorge, 6 security men rescued

One of the police escort vehicles in President Pranab Mukherjee's convoy met with an accident when the President's convoy was travelling to Bagdogra from Darjeeling today.

The incident took place when the driver lost control after the vehicle skidded off the road and fell into a gorge at Sonada, around 17 km from Darjeeling town. The pilot van was at the of the end of the Presidential convoy when it lost control and fell into the gorge.

Car in President's carcade from Darjeeling to Bagdogra goes off road, minor injuries to security personnel; #PresidentMukherjee safe; President of India (@RashtrapatiBhvn) July 15, 2016

BAD WEATHER

According to locals, it was drizzling in the area and the weather was foggy due to which visibility was low. The vehicle fell for about 30 feet into the gorge and got stuck in a tree. They were immediately rescued by police personnel in the convoy with the use of ropes.

Unfortunate accident involving escort vehicle in convoy enroute to Bagdogra today ;everybody well by grace of God #PresidentMukherjee; President of India (@RashtrapatiBhvn) July 15, 2016

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's convoy was also following the President's convoy. Rest of President Pranab Mukerjee's convoy is reported to be safe and moved ahead for Bagdogra.

Photo: Rajen Pradhan

The President was being accompanied by daughter Sarmistha Mukherjee.

SIX INJURED

There were six personnel who were in the escort vehicle. They have all been rescued and rushed to a hospital in Kurseong.

Photo: ANI

Lauding the rescue team's efforts, Mamata Banerjee said, "The rescue team will be awarded by the West Bengal government".

Rescue team will be rewarded by the West Bengal Govt: CM Mamata Banerjee pic.twitter.com/437INRxf4H; ANI (@ANI_news) July 15, 2016

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the President and enquired about his well-being.