Ankola, July 21:
A tragic accident struck National Highway 63 on Monday when a private bus carrying 21 passengers from Yellapur to Mangaluru veered off a bridge near Agasur village in Ankola taluk and plunged into the Ankola River.
The mishap resulted in the death of one passenger, while five others sustained serious injuries. According to police sources, the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle while crossing the bridge, leading to the deadly plunge.
Emergency services rushed to the scene immediately. The critically injured passengers were transported to a hospital in Mangaluru for advanced medical care, while those with minor injuries were treated at the Ankola Taluk Hospital.
Local authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. Eyewitnesses suggest that poor road conditions and possible speeding may have contributed to the crash.
The accident has sent shockwaves through the region, raising fresh concerns about road safety and infrastructure along NH-63, a key route that connects several major towns in Karnataka.
Further details are awaited as authorities continue rescue and recovery operations at the site.
