Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Monday announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of those who lost their lives in a bus accident in Kohima, while those seriously injured will receive Rs 50,000 as compensation.
Expressing grief over the incident, Rio conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families, particularly members of the Chümoukedima Ao Baptist Church, and wished a speedy recovery to the injured passengers.
Five women were killed and several others sustained injuries when a bus carrying 32 passengers overturned around 21 km from Kohima on Saturday evening, officials said.
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The injured were rushed to the Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research (CIHSR) in Dimapur, where they are undergoing treatment.
According to a preliminary probe, the accident was not caused by rash or drunken driving. Officials said a possible mechanical failure is suspected and a detailed technical examination of the vehicle is currently underway.
Police said the bodies of the five deceased women were handed over to their families after completion of all legal formalities.
