Tragic Bus Accident in Nepal: 41 Indians Killed, Autopsy and Repatriation Underway

Autopsies of those killed in a bus crash near Kathmandu began today in Bharatpur, Nepal. The Indian Air Force will repatriate the bodies to Nashik. Maharashtra officials are coordinating with Nepalese authorities and the Indian Embassy for relief efforts. The death toll has risen to 41.

Autopsies on the victims of the Nepal bus crash, which claimed the lives of 41 Indians, began today at a hospital in Bharatpur, according to a Nepal police official. The bodies will be handed over to authorities by noon for transportation to India via the Sonauli border crossing.

An Indian Air Force plane will repatriate the victims' bodies to Nashik, Maharashtra, as confirmed by a state government release on Friday. The tragic incident occurred when a bus, carrying 27 Indian tourists and other passengers, plunged into the Marsyangdi River in Tanahun district, some 110 kilometers from Kathmandu on August 23.

Addressing a press conference, Maharashtra Minister Girish Mahajan confirmed the death toll had increased to 41. He noted ongoing efforts by the Maharashtra government to coordinate with the Nepal administration and the Indian Embassy in Delhi for relief activities. Rescue operations are still underway, with the Nepal Army transporting survivors to hospitals.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde discussed the repatriation process with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and assured that the Indian Embassy in Nepal is providing all possible assistance to the affected families.

(With inputs from agencies.)