Dhading, Aug. 9 -- Three people were killed and 26 others have been missing after a Kathmandu-bound passenger bus plunged into Trishuli River in Benighat early Friday morning. Police officials say security personnel have rescued 16 passengers and retrieved the vehicle, which was carrying nearly four dozen people on board.

The bus was travelling from Malangwa, the headquarters of Sarlahi district.

Two of the deceased have been identified as Ajaya Das and Bijaya Kurmi. The identity of the third person has yet to be established.

Dhading District Police Chief Raj Kumar Baidwar said officers were attempting to identify passengers in coordination with the District Administration Office in Sarlahi.

Laxman Jamarkattel, the bus driver who was ...