36 dead in bus crash in Indian Himalayas
A bus in India plunged into a deep Himalayan ravine on Monday (Nov 4), killing at least 36 passengers and injuring several others, a government official said.
A bus accident in India's Uttarakhand state killed at least 36 and injured several after plunging into a Himalayan ravine. Rescue efforts continue. PM Modi announced compensation for victims' families and an investigation has been ordered.
Photographs released by government rescue teams showed the crumpled wreckage of the bus in thick undergrowth, with the twisted front of the vehicle squashed nearly flat.
A human chain of volunteers lined the steep slopes, and across a rushing river, helping pull out the wounded from the remains of the bus. Dead bodies were carried out and laid on the back of a truck.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his "deepest condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the unfortunate road accident".
Modi's office said in a statement that the families of those killed would receive 200,000 rupees (US$2,380) in support, while those injured would get 50,000 rupees (US$595).
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said he had ordered an investigation into the accident, which took place in forested hills near the town of Almora.
Hundreds of people die in road accidents in India every year.
Source: www.channelnewsasia.com
