Shimla, Oct. 8 -- The death toll in the bus accident that occurred in the Balughar area of the Jhandutta assembly segment in Bilaspur, after a private bus was struck by falling debris, increased to 16 including nine men, four women and three children.

Sanjay Gupta, Chief Secretary, said that relief and rescue operations were being carried out by the National Disaster Response Force, Public Work Department and local administration personnel, further assuring that all government services would be provided and offering condolences to the bereaved families.

"A very tragic accident took place in Bilaspur yesterday. 16 people have died and 2 are undergoing treatment... Government assistance will be provided. Our condolences to the bereaved fa...