About 8 tourists killed in Tamil Nadu after bus loses control; PM Modi condoles

Salem: Eight people were killed and several others injured in a horrific road accident in Salem district of Tamil Nadu. The accident occurred on the Salem-Coimbatore National Highway when a State Transport Corporation bus collided head-on with several vehicles. The bus collided with a two-wheeler and an autorickshaw carrying around 10 passengers before crashing at the 9th hairpin bend.

What did the officials say?

According to a statement issued by the District Collector's office, the bus, travelling from Coimbatore to Salem, suddenly went off the road at the 13th hairpin bend after the driver lost control. The bus then collided with a two-wheeler and an autorickshaw carrying around 10 passengers before crashing at the 9th hairpin bend.

How many people from Kerala were travelling in the bus?

The bus was carrying 13 tourists from Perinthalmanna, Kerala. Eight of them (one man and seven women) died on the spot. Five people were injured in the accident, including the driver, two teenagers aged 17 to 18, and two women, and taken to the government hospital in Pollachi.

What about the rescue operation?

Tamil Nadu state authorities responded swiftly to the incident. Two senior police officers arrived at the scene and supervised rescue and relief operations. Fire and rescue service personnel were also deployed to immediately evacuate the injured.

What did PM Modi say?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the deaths in the accident.

The Prime Minister's Office shared on X, "Distressed to hear about the mishap in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the mishap. Prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured."

What did Kerala CM say?

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also expressed condolences over the loss of lives.

According to a PTI report, Vijayan directed officials to ensure the best possible treatment for all the injured. Meanwhile, an atmosphere of mourning prevailed at the Pang-Pallipparamba Government Lower Primary School in Malappuram, as all the victims worked at the school.