Mandya: At least 25 people were killed when a private bus fell into VC canal near Mandya, Karnataka, today. The bus had 40 passengers and many have been washed away in the water.

Initially, it was said that only one boy Rohith managed to survive, but now the latest details are that another 12-year-old boy Girish has also survived the tragic accident.

Rescue teams are continuing their search for others, who are suspected to be washed away in the water.

Karnataka chief minister cancelled the State Film Awards distribution ceremony and visited the accident spot. He has announced Rs 5 lakh compensation to the families of the dead. 

Here is what survivor Girish had to say:

"I was sitting on the last seat at the back when the bus fell into the canal. Suddenly water started gushing inside the bus. I was scared and opened a window and jumped outside. Everybody inside the bus were shouting. I saw another boy trying to come out of the window and I pulled him outside. Both were very scared and swam to the shore. Passersby started gathering as they heard the shouts of people.” 

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Details of the bus:

The bus was registered KA 19- A5676. The current owner of the bus is Shrinivas. The bus was registered in 2001 and was bought by a person from Mangaluru. Later, the bus was purchased by Shrinivas from Mandya. It is a Tata company bus and it also has fitness certificate valid till May 15, 2019. It also has insurance and tax validity till May 15, 2019. 

However, no details are available about the driver of the bus, who fled the spot.

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