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47 killed as overcrowded bus falls into gorge in Uttarakhand’s Pauri
Police said that the bus was a 28-seater, but was carrying about 58 persons.
At least 47 people were killed when a 28-seater bus carrying about 58 persons fell into an 80m-deep gorge in Pauri district of Uttarakhand on Sunday.
The incident happened near Kuin village around 8.45 am when the bus driver lost control on Dhumakot-Bamenisain road.
“We have confirmed deaths of 47 passengers. Two critically injured were taken to Ramnagar while nine others were given primary medication at Dhumakot,” Jagatram Joshi, senior superintendent of police (SSP) Pauri, said.
Police and transport officers confirmed that the bus was a 28-seater. According to preliminary information, police said there were about 58 passengers in the vehicle.
An officer close to the matter said, “Overloading could be a reason behind the accident. But, presently we are focusing on the rescue operation.”
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) along with police is undertaking the rescue operation. Additional forces were called in from Nainital and Dehradun districts.
Meanwhile, chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat announced ₹two lakh each to kin of victims who died and ₹50,000 each to those injured.
Rawat also apprised Union home minister Rajnath Singh about the incident and the latter assured the best possible help.
The CM is likely to reach the spot later.
Both CM and governor K K Paul have expressed condolence to the families of victims.
