At least 16 people were killed and one critically injured today when the vehicle they were travelling skidded off the road and fell into a deep gorge in West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh.
The mishap occurred at around 12.30 PM when a pick-up vehicle was on its way to Betchelling village and fell into the gorge on Rupa-Kalaktang Road, Power Minister T N Thongdok, who represents the area, said over phone.
The minister, who rushed to the area, said while at least 16 people died on the spot, another was critically injured.
"I am in touch with administration and have apprised Chief Minister Kalikho Pul who has assured all possible relief...Let us pray for peace of all departed souls. Condolence to families of the victims," Thongdok said.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Kalikho Pul expressed deep shock over the deaths and announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs 4 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 2 lakh to the critically injured person.
Governor Jyoti Prashad Rajkhowa also expressed shock and condoled the bereaved families.
Neither the DC nor the SP of the district could be contacted due to poor telecommunication network.
Initial report had put the death toll at 17.
(Reopens BOM-8)
Meanwhile, some of the injured bus persons, who were undergoing treatment at Government General Hospital in Khammam, alleged the mishap occurred due to negligence of the driver, who fled the scene after the mishap.
"The bus was at high speed and it seems he (driver) was unable to control the vehicle as it fell into the canal and turned upside down," Suresh Babu, an injured passenger, said.
The bus driver has been identified as Kishore.
A police officer at the hospital said that the 18 persons who suffered multiple injuries, including head injuries and leg fractures, were undergoing treatment and their condition was out of danger.
(Reopens BOM 9)
Meanwhile, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao expressed deep shock over the incident and extended condolences to the bereaved family members.
According to a release from the CMO, Rao directed officials to ensure quality treatment for the injured.
