25 dead after bus carrying pilgrims falls into gorge in Uttarakhand, PM offers condolences

As many as 25 bodies, according to officials, have been recovered so far. Police and SDRF team are on the spot and the rescue operation is going on.

Uttarkashi:At least 25 people died after a bus carrying 28 pilgrims fell into a gorge about 200 meters deep near Damta on Yamunotri Highway in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand on Sunday. As per the preliminary reports, all the passengers belonged to Madhya Pradesh.

As per the latest reports, 25 bodies have been recovered so far. Police and SDRF team are on the spot and the rescue operation is going on. "As per Uttarakhand local administration, 25 pilgrims have died and 3 people have been injured. NDRF team rushing to spot and will reach any moment," MoS Home Nityanand Rai told news agency ANI.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences over the accident and announced ex-gratia relief for the next of kin of those dead and the injured. "The bus accident in Uttarakhand is very painful. I express my condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. Under the supervision of the state government, the local administration is engaged in all possible assistance on the spot," the Prime Minister said. His office announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each from PMNRF for the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the accident and Rs 50,000 each for the injured.

Home Minister Amit Shah also offered his condolences over the tragic incident and said he had spoken to the Uttarakhand Chief minister.