Stephan Kayyar

Daijiworld Media Network - Kasargod

Kasargod, Nov 29: A tragic accident occurred on Saturday afternoon near Malo Kutti Kaval in Chittarikkal, where a bus carrying Sabarimala pilgrims fell into a gorge, leaving one person dead and 46 others injured. The condition of two passengers is reported to be critical.

The accident took place while the pilgrims were returning to Mysuru after completing their Sabarimala darshan. The deceased has been identified as Harish (36), a resident of Chunchanakatte, Mysuru.

The mishap occurred around 2.50 pm when the bus lost control at a curve near Kutti Kaval and plunged about 30 feet down the slope. Local residents and police immediately rushed to the spot and shifted the injured to hospitals in Pariyaram, Cherupuzha and Payyanur.

There were a total of 56 passengers on the bus, including six children. Among the injured, two have been admitted to Pariyaram Medical College Hospital, four to Cherupuzha Cooperative Hospital, and 20 to Cherupuzha St Sebastian Hospital. Further investigation into the incident is underway.