Toll in yesterday's bus accident rises to 21

Gangtok, Oct 26 (UNI) With the death of three more people today, the toll in yesterday's bus accident near Singtam in South Sikkim has risen to 21.

Police said here that three more people succumbed to their injuries at STBM hospital and Central Referral Hospital.

The accident occurred when the bus carrying the passengers hit the railing of a bridge and plunged some 150 ft down the road into the Teesta river.

While 20 victims are undergoing treatment at STNM hospital, 25 and treated at Central Referral hospital.

The driver is still missing and efforts are on to trace him.

Chief Minister Pawan Chamling visited the injured in the hospitals yesterday and gave Rs 30,000 to the seriously injured, Rs 20,000 to the injured and Rs 10,000 to those suffering from minor injuries.

An ex-gratia of Rs 100,000 will be given to the next kin of the deceased.

UNI XC SJC PR KP1838