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34 killed in Meghalaya bus accident

In one of the worst road tragedies in Meghalaya, a minibus carrying more than 60 passengers fell into a 150-foot-deep gorge in the East Khasi Hills district, killing at least 34 people and injuring 32 others.

The accident took place near Mawpyrkong, 60km south of the capital Shillong, at 0730 IST.

But Meghalaya Home Minister T H Rangad put the toll at 33, including 31 on the spot.

A one-year-old, who survived the accident, was yet to be claimed. The parents of the baby were feared killed. The baby was taken to the civil hospital.

Official reports received in Shillong said 17 persons were rushed to the Shillong Civil Hospital with serious injuries. Fifteen others with mild injuries were admitted to the community health centre at Sohra.

The driver of the ill-fated bus was also killed in the accident. The bus was on its way from Nongwar to Shillong.

The reasons for the incident were yet to be ascertained. The bus, which was severely damaged, has not yet been recovered, official sources said.

The Meghalaya government expressed condolences to members of the bereaved families. Governor M M Jacob also expressed shock and grief and said, "The government is taking all possible steps to mitigate the suffering of those affected."

Home Minister Rangad said compensation for the family of the dead and for the injured would be decided after getting a detailed report.

UNI

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