KATHMANDU: Twenty passengers were rescued from a bus that plunged into the Kohsi River from the Koshi barrage on Thursday, officials said, though the total number of passengers on board remains unclear.
The passenger bus, en route from Biratnagar to Gaighat, the headquarters of Udaipur district, lost control and broke through the fence of the barrage bridge, plunging into the river.
The incident occurred on the border between Sunsari and Saptari districts.
Local authorities, including Nepal Police and Armed Police Force, were swiftly mobilized to the scene for rescue operations.
SP Bhim Dahal from the Provincial Police Office reported that the bus fell into the river from section 34/35 of the barrage, where it veered off course.
“We have successfully rescued 20 passengers so far,” said Ramchandra Tiwari, the Chief District Officer of Sunsari. “However, the total number of people on the bus is yet to be confirmed.”
Rescue teams continue to work at the site, assisted by local residents.
The bus driver, identified as 35-year-old Chandan Kumar Mahato, has been taken into custody for further investigation.
As rescue efforts proceed, authorities are yet to determine the condition of any remaining passengers. More to follow.
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