23 people killed in bus mishap in Jammu

In an unfortunate accident at least 23 people killed and 16 others injured when a bus plunged into Neeru River in Doda district on Wednesday. Toll may rise as many passengers are in critical conditions.

The Inspector General of Police, K Rajinder, said the accident occurred at Galgandhar in Doda district, 170 km northeast of Jammu town when the bus was on its way from Bhaderwah to Pull-Doda.

Immediate cause of the accident has not yet determined but prima facie it seems that overcrowding could be the reason for the imbalance of 32-seater bus, the police said, adding that the driver appears to have lost control while taking a turn on the mountain road. The bus, which is said to be overcrowded, plunged about 250 feet into the river.

Soon after the accident local people began the rescue operation, shortly joined by the police and army on war footing. Injured were rushed to different hospitals in Doda district. Seriously injured persons were being flown to Jammu, police said.

Meanwhile Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, has expressed deep shock and grief over the loss of precious life and announced ex-gratia relief of Rs.25,000/- each to the kin of deceased and Rs.5000/- each to the injured.