43 die after bus falls in gorge in India

Shimla: A bus fell into a gorge in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh on Thursday, killing 43 people and injuring 35.

Police officers said they rushed to the scene after receiving a report of the accident.

Superintendent of Police Kullu, Shalini Agnihotri said all the bodies have been retrieved from the 500-meter gorge and rescue work was completed.

According to authorities, the bus was carrying local passengers from Banjar to Gadagushani area in Kullu.

Officials feared the death toll was likely to increase in wake of critical condition of some of the injured.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed grief over the deaths.

"Deeply saddened by the bus accident in Kullu. Condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. I hope the injured recover soon," a statement issued by Modi's office said. "The Himachal Pradesh government is providing all possible assistance that is required."

According to officials, 78 people were onboard at the time of accident.

Reports said some of the passengers were sitting on the roof of the bus when it fell into the gorge.

In a separate accident earlier on Thursday morning, seven children were feared dead and 22 others were rescued after a vehicle carrying them plunged into a canal in Uttar Pradesh.