4 dead, 22 injured after bus with Vaishno Devi pilgrims catches fire near Katra in Jammu

Lt Governor announces Ex-Gratia of Rs 5 lakh to Kin of those died in tragic bus incident in Katra
JAMMU, May 13: At least four people were killed while 22 others injured after a local bus from Katra to Jammu caught fire near Kharmal here on Friday.
“A local bus No.JK14/1831 while on its way from Katra to Jammu caught fire near Kharmal about 1.5 km from Katra. As per preliminary details, the bus caught fire from the engine area which soon engulfed the whole bus. Two persons died on spot and 22 injured shifted to Katra,” Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Jammu tweeted.
“Out of the injured two more succumbed to their injuries taking the death toll to 04 persons,” ADGP Jammu said in a subsequent tweet.
Deputy Commissioner Babila Rakwal, Reasi, Jammu and Kashmir said, “This was not a blast, but a bus tank explosion due to overheating (caused by the weather). There are 3 to 4 casualties. 22 reportedly injured…”
Taking to Twitter, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed his condolences to the bereaved families. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh has assured every possible help to the injured who have been currently shifted to Naraina Hospital in Jammu.
“Extremely pained by the loss of lives in the tragic bus incident in Katra. I offer my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. Directed district administration to ensure the best possible treatment to the injured,” Office of LG J&K tweeted.
Meanwhile Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha today announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh each for the Next of Kin of those who have lost their lives in the tragic bus incident in Katra.
The Lt Governor expressed grief over the unfortunate incident and directed the district administration to ensure the best possible treatment to the injured.
“Extremely pained by the loss of lives in the tragic bus incident in Katra. I offer my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured”, the Lt Governor said.  (AGENCIES)