Bus plunges off bridge in India killing 39

At least 39 people have been killed after a bus plunged off a bridge into a river in India on Friday.

The packed passenger bus plunged off a bridge into the Purna river in western India in one of the deadliest road accidents in recent years.

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Indian rescue workers and villagers tried to extract the injured and dead passengers from the Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation's passenger bus.

The incident occurred near Navsari, some 315 kms from Ahmedabad on February 5, 2016.

Passengers included students and employees working in different private and government offices who were on their way to Ukai from the Navsari State transport depot.

The bus driver lost control and broke through the railing before plunging 60ft into the river.

There were over 65 passengers on the bus at the time.

Speaking to the Indian Express, Navsari District Collector Remaya Mohan said, "We have started rescue operations. So far, 39 passengers have been declared dead. Their bodies are at Mulla hospital and Civil hospital. Many other passengers are severely injured and they are undergoing treatment in other hospitals."

It is thought the number of casualties is likely to rise.

According to Sky News, Gujarat's chief minister Anandiben Patel tweeted: "Deeply pained to learn about the unfortunate bus accident on Purna River Bridge in Navsari. My prayers are with victims & their families!"

The Gujarat government has announced 400,000 rupees (£4,080) compensation for the families of those killed.

The site adds that the World Health Organisation figures show more than 230,000 people die on India's roads every year.

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