At least 10 feared dead in bus accident

More than 10 persons are feared dead when a private bus plunged into a river at Thazhathangadi near Kottayam on Tuesday.

Local residents rushed to the spot and launched rescue operations within minutes of the accident. Three deaths have been confirmed and about 15 persons have been admitted to hospitals with injuries. The bus was on its way to Kottayam from Cherthala.

Those who escaped said the bus had around 40 passengers — most of whom were students on their way to see the “pakal pooram” in Thirunakkara. At least 20 persons escaped from the bus immediately after the accident.

The bus which had hit an electric post before falling into the river is fully submerged. Efforts are on to lift it out of the river.