Kathmandu, April 30: At least 20 people lost their lives when a jeep carrying pilgrims plunged off a cliff in Nepal's Rolpa district on Thursday evening, according to reports fromThe Kathmandu Post, citing police sources.

The tragic accident occurred in Thabang Rural Municipality when the vehicle veered off a narrow ridge road and fell almost 800 meters below. The passengers, who were traveling from Rukum East to Jaljala, were on their way to perform rituals for the full moon festival.

Sunil Thapa Nepali, Information Officer at the Rolpa District Police Office, confirmed that rescue operations are underway, with police teams and local residents actively involved at the scene. Authorities speculate that slippery road conditions, caused by recent rainfall, may have contributed to the jeep losing control.

Rolpa's Chief District Officer, Ganga Bahadur Chhetri, stated that rescue personnel were immediately mobilized following the incident. As rescue and recovery efforts continue, further details are expected.