Bus crash in Telangana claims over 57 lives, 6 children included 

The death toll in a bus accident in Telangana's Jagtial district on Tuesday has climbed to 57. According to reports, the deceased include at least 6 children while as many as 20 people have been injured in the tragedy.

The state-owned Road Transport Corporation was on its way to Jagtial from Kondagattu with over 60 passengers onboard when it skidded and fell into a valley near a village.

Although the main reason for the accident is not clear, authorities suspect brake failure as one of the probable reasons for the mishap.

"The incident happened between 11.45 am and noon," Jagtial District Collector A Sharat, who is supervising the relief and rescue work, told news agency PTI.

The bus was carrying pilgrims who were returning after a visit to a temple in Kondagattu.

Telangana Caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao has announced Rs five lakh each to the family of the deceased and has expressed sadness over the accident.

The injured have been moved to the nearest hospital in Jagtial.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed remorse over the unfortunate incident and described it as "shocking".

"The bus accident in Telangana’s Jagtial district is shocking beyond words. Anguished by the loss of lives. My thoughts and solidarity with the bereaved families. I pray that the injured recover quickly," PM Modi tweeted.

(With inputs from agencies)