Kurnool, April 16 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives in the bus accident that occurred in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool district. He has announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased.

In a message posted on X, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) stated, "The incident in Kurnool is profoundly distressing. My heartfelt condolences go out to those mourning their loved ones, and I wish a swift recovery to the injured."

The PMO further noted, "An ex gratia amount of Rs. 2 lakh will be disbursed from the PMNRF to the next of kin of each victim. Additionally, injured individuals will receive Rs. 50,000."

The incident transpired when a Bolero vehicle, transporting pilgrims, collided with a ready-mix truck, causing a devastating situation that left several passengers trapped and injured.

Officials reported that eight individuals lost their lives in this tragedy. Five were pronounced dead at the scene, while three others later succumbed to their wounds during treatment at a nearby hospital.

Approximately 10 to 12 people sustained injuries in the accident, and they were swiftly transported to Emmiganur hospital for medical attention, according to the officials.

Initial reports indicate that the deceased were pilgrims from Karnataka, who were returning from a visit to the Mantralayam temple when the accident occurred.

Emergency response teams arrived promptly after being alerted about the collision, initiating rescue and recovery operations. Efforts were made to assist the injured and remove debris from the crash site, as reported by officials.

A case has been registered regarding the incident, and an investigation is currently in progress to ascertain the precise cause of the accident.

Authorities mentioned that additional information will be provided as the investigation continues, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding the crash.

This incident follows closely after another bus accident in Punjab’s Fatehgarh Sahib, which resulted in the deaths of six pilgrims.

Officials indicated that at least six individuals lost their lives, and around 20 others were injured when the bus carrying devotees overturned in Fatehgarh Sahib while returning from Anandpur Sahib on Tuesday.

The injured included women and children who were immediately admitted to nearby medical facilities for treatment.

The bus, which had around 40 passengers on board, was returning from Anandpur Sahib in Ropar district after participating in Baisakhi celebrations when it encountered a mechanical failure.