2 killed as bus plunges into gorge

The deceased have been identified as Devaraj (28) of Aloor in Karnool district of Andhra Pradesh and Jagadish (30) of Itagi village in Shirahatti taluk.

As many as 18 persons have suffered injuries in the mishap. The condition of two persons is said to be critical. They are Gowdappa (45) of Sindanoor and Sharanabasappa (8). The bus was bound to Dharmasthala from Bellary. The mishap occurred when the driver lost control.

Villagers of Kattihole and Piramenahalli rushed to the spot and carried out rescue operation along with fire service and police personnel.

KSRTC distributed compensation of Rs 15,000 each to the family of the deceased and Rs 1,000 to 2,000 to the injured.