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At least nine people were killed and four others critically injured after a tourist van fell into a deep gorge in the Valparai hills of Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore district on Friday.
The victims were part of a group travelling from Kerala.
Accident at hairpin bend
The van, carrying 13 passengers from Malappuram district, lost control while descending the Valparai–Pollachi hill road.
It reportedly crashed into a barrier at the 13th hairpin bend before plunging into a gorge. Visuals from the scene showed the vehicle completely mangled.
Casualties and injuries
According to police, eight people died on the spot — seven women and one man — while another succumbed to injuries at the hospital.
The driver is among the critically injured. All injured persons were rushed to the Pollachi Government Hospital.
Some of the victims are believed to be school teachers from Kerala’s Malappuram district, who were on a trip to Valparai and were returning home when the accident occurred.
Rescue and probe underway
Police and fire service personnel carried out rescue operations, retrieving bodies from the gorge and transporting the injured to hospital.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
PM Modi expresses grief
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives.
“I am deeply saddened by the accident in Coimbatore. My condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured,” he said.
Distressed to hear about the mishap in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the mishap. Prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured: PM @narendramodi
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 17, 2026
