18 killed after landslide hits bus in Himachal; PM Modi expresses grief
Police and district administration officials are at the site, conducting rescue operations in full swing, authorities said. So far, 18 bodies have been recovered from the debris, they added.
According to a policeman engaged in the rescue efforts, the entire mountain came crashing down on the bus, and the chances of survival for the passengers are bleak.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended his heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the mishap. In a post on X, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) wrote:
“Saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000.”
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu also expressed grief over the accident and directed officials to expedite the rescue operations, according to an official statement issued on Tuesday.
“The state government stands firmly with the affected families in this hour of distress and will provide every possible assistance,” he said. The Chief Minister prayed for the peace of the departed souls and instructed the district administration to accelerate relief and rescue efforts. He further directed officials to ensure that all injured persons are immediately taken to hospitals for treatment and provided with full medical care, ANI reported.
Officials stated that heavy machinery has been deployed at the site, and efforts are underway to clear the debris amid difficult terrain and intermittent rainfall. Intermittent rains have been lashing the area since Monday.
(With PTI and ANI inputs)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/himachal-pradesh-18-killed-as-landslide-hits-bus-in-bilaspur-rescue-operation-underway-pm-modi-offers-condolences-23597655
