Ramechhap bus accident: 12 dead, 8 injured

Kathmandu: Twelve people died in a passenger bus accident today at Masane Tar, Ward No. 6, Manthali Municipality, Ramechhap.

According to Chief District Officer Shyam Krishna Thapa, the deceased include seven men and five women. Eight others were injured and have been sent to hospitals in Dhulikhel and Kathmandu for treatment.

The bus, which fell into the Tamakoshi River after the accident, has been recovered. The vehicle, bearing number Province 3-01-005 Kha 9975, was traveling from Kathmandu to Okhaldhunga when it plunged about 50 meters below the road at around 11 am.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Bhola Bhatta said the bus had over 20 passengers on board. The driver survived and is reported to be in normal condition.

The exact number of passengers and the cause of the accident are still under investigation. Divers were deployed at the site to assist with rescue operations.