One killed, 50 injured as bus plunges into dry river

Villupuram, Feb 2 (UNI) A man was crushed to death, while about 50 passengers were injured when a Tamil Nadu State Transport Corportion bus plunged into the dry Thenpennaiyar river near here this evening.

Police said the bus was proceeding to Salem from here, when it crashed into the parapet wall of a bridge across the river and plunged into the 40 foot deep river.

The 45-year-old deceased was identified as Sethuraman, hailing from Rasipuram. Of the injured, 17 passengers, who sustained head injuries are said to be in serious condition, were admitted to JIPMER hospital in Puducherry, police said.

The driver who jumped out of the bus, was also among those injured, police added.

Fifty three passengers, including 13 women were travelling in the bus.

Those who sustained minor injuries were admitted to Villupuram government hospital.

Police said the accident occurred when the driver of the bus tried to avoid an oncoming car and lost control. The bus, which hit the parapet wall and fell into the river was completely damaged in the impact, police added.

Soon after the accident, senior police and fire service personnel rushed to the spot and initiated relief operations.

UNI