The bus, which was overcrowded, was headed to the famous Shiv Khori temple in Raesi district.
As many as 22 people were killed and at least 50 were injured after a bus fell into a gorge in Jammu's Akhnoor on Thursday. The bus, which was carrying pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, was overcrowded and had over 80 passengers on board.
Officials said the bus, which was headed to the famous Shiv Khori temple in Raesi district, skidded off the Jammu-Poonch highway and fell into the gorge.
Jammu Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar said, "The bus fell into a deep gorge. A rescue operation was initiated immediately. 22 people were found dead. The people who were injured have been taken to hospitals. An inquiry has been ordered."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh each for the family of the dead and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
"Anguished by the loss of lives due to a bus mishap in Akhnoor. My thoughts are with those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover soon. Rs. 2 lakh would be given to the next of kin of each deceased due to the bus mishap. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi," the Prime Minister's Office posted on X.
President Droupadi Murmu also expressed her condolences. "Pained beyond words to learn about the loss of lives in a bus accident in Akhnoor near Jammu. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I wish speedy recovery of the injured," she posted.