NEW DELHI: At least 27 people died after a Delhi-bound bus overturned and caught fire in Bihar's Motihari district. The was was on its way to Delhi from Muzaffarpur, around 75 km from capital Patna.



The vehicle caught fire soon after it fell into a pit. According to reports, 32 passengers were in the bus when it toppled when the driver was taking a turn.

“It is a really sad incident. There is a provision to give compensation of Rs 4 lakh to the next of kin of dead in such cases and it will be given,” Indian Express quoted Bihar Disaster Management and Relief Minister as saying.



The accident occurred on the NH 28 near Chetwa village under Kotwa police station area.

The National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force teams were rushed to the spot. Hospitals in Motihari and Muzaffarpur districts were also put on alert.


Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced compensation to the families of the deceased.



(More details awaited)